What Is kyphosis?
In the thoracic (upper) spine, kyphosis (a forward spinal curvature or “hunched back”) is normal. It can also happen in the cervical and lumbar spines. When measured on an x-ray, the normal range for kyphosis is quite broad, ranging from 20 to 50 degrees. However, when kyphosis exceeds 50 degrees, it becomes visible and is considered abnormal. Kyphosis is most common in elderly women due to osteoporosis.
What Factors Contribute to Kyphosis?
Kyphosis occurs when the upper back vertebrae become wedge-shaped. A variety of conditions, including age-related degenerative diseases such as osteoporosis, spinal fractures, and degenerative disc disease, among others, can cause this deformity.
Different Kinds of Kyphosis
Aside from age-related kyphosis, two types of kyphosis are commonly seen in children and teenagers:
- Scheuermann’s kyphosis :- This kyphosis is most common in adolescent boys. It is distinguished by a short, sharp kyphosis in the middle of the upper spine and is sometimes associated with aching back pain. When examined, the kyphosis is rigid (not flexible). Teenagers with Scheuermann’s kyphosis frequently have mild scoliosis.
- Postural Roundback :- Postural roundback kyphosis is distinguished by a smooth, flexible kyphosis that is not usually associated with pain. The curve can be easily corrected by asking the child to stand up straight. Compared to Scheuermann’s kyphosis, these curves are milder in severity and span a greater number of vertebral segments.
Kyphosis occurs when the upper back vertebrae become wedge-shaped. A variety of conditions, including age-related degenerative diseases such as osteoporosis, spinal fractures, and degenerative disc disease, among others, can cause this deformity.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Kyphosis?
Kyphosis, in addition to causing a “hunched back,” can also cause back pain and stiffness, and in severe cases, it can even affect your lungs, nerves, and other organs. Mild cases, on the other hand, may show no visible signs or symptoms.
How is Kyphosis Diagnosed?
A physical exam and x-rays are usually used to diagnose kyphosis. If more information is needed, your doctor may order a CT scan. Sometimes, your doctor may also request an MRI of your spine if he or she suspects an underlying cause of the curvature, such as a tumor or infection.
How is Kyphosis Treatment?
The cause of the curvature, the degree of deformity, the risk of progression during and after growth (in children and adolescents), and the severity of symptoms associated with kyphosis all influence treatment decisions.
Kyphosis treatment options include observation, medications, bracing, and surgery. Kyphosis less than 50 degrees usually do not require treatment. A brace may be used to treat kyphosis between 50 and 75 degrees where there is still significant growth or persistent back pain.
When kyphosis is caused by a vertebral compression fracture caused by osteoporosis or cancer, kyphoplasty, a minimally invasive procedure, is a common treatment. Surgeries, such as spinal fusion, are typically reserved for curves greater than 75 degrees, where there is concern that there will be gradual progression after growth is completed, or in late adulthood when there is a progressive loss of bone mass. To prevent progression later in life, surgical treatment includes both corrections of the deformity with spinal instrumentation and fusion of the involved portion of the spine.