Kyphosis

Kyphosis is a condition where your spine curves outward more than it should. This causes your upper back around the thoracic region (the part of your spine between your neck and ribs) to bend forward. The curvature can make it look like you’re hunched over or slouching. People sometimes call it “hunchback” or “round back.”

The bends in your spine are natural. You can stand erect and maintain good posture with the aid of these curves. However, too much curvature can strain your body and make standing uncomfortable.

Symptoms of kyphosis: The main symptoms of kyphosis include:

• Rounded shoulders.
• A curve or hump in your upper back.
• Tight hamstrings (muscles in the back of your thighs).

Severe kyphosis may cause the following symptoms:

• Pain or stiffness in your back and shoulder blades.
• Numb, weak or tingling legs.
• Extreme fatigue.
• Balance issues.
• Bladder incontinence or bowel incontinence.
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.

Causes of kyphosis: The spine is made up of bones known as vertebrae that stack on top of each other. This structure allows the spine to be supportive and flexible. It also means the spine is vulnerable to damage. There are several types of kyphosis. The factors that contribute to kyphosis vary depending on the type someone has.

• Postural kyphosis: This is the most common form of kyphosis. It often starts in adolescence, when the muscles surrounding the spine develop differently due to a postural imbalance, such as slouching. Slouching increases the forward curvature, stretching the extensor muscles and posterior ligaments of the spine, which weaken over time. This can also occur in older adults, due to decreased muscle strength.
• Scheuermann’s kyphosis: This also tends to develop during adolescence. However, it can become more severe than postural kyphosis. Doctors do not know what causes this form of kyphosis.
• Age-related kyphosis: This type of kyphosis causes a curve in the spine that progressively gets worse in older age, often as a result of conditions that affect the bones in the spine. A common example is osteoporosis, which causes the bones to lose density and become weaker.
• Congenital kyphosis: This occurs when the spine does not develop properly before birth, causing kyphosis at birth. It can rapidly worsen with age.

Diagnosis of kyphosis: A doctor diagnoses kyphosis by performing a physical exam. The doctor may ask a person to perform exercises or stretches to assess their balance and range of motion. Another common test involves laying on a flat surface while a doctor examines the spine. If the spine straightens out, this indicates it is flexible and that the cause is likely to be postural kyphosis rather than a structural issue with the spine. If the spine remains curved, it is likely to be a structural form of kyphosis.

If they find evidence of an inflexible curve during the examination, the doctor may recommend an X-ray or MRI scan to look at the spine’s structure. In more severe cases, they may order other tests, such as a blood test or a lung function test.

Kyphosis treatment: Treatment for kyphosis depends on the type of kyphosis and the severity of the curve.

• Observation: In cases of mild kyphosis, a doctor may suggest waiting to see if the curve progresses. If it does not and the curve does not cause any other symptoms, no further treatment may be necessary.
• Physical therapy: This involves specific exercises that strengthen the back and core muscles, and may help to improve posture.

• Bracing: In some cases of Scheuermann’s kyphosis, a doctor may recommend a spinal brace if the spine is still growing. Spinal braces support the back while the spine grows into a more typical position, preventing progressive curving.
• Treatment for underlying conditions: If an older adult has osteoporosis, or another condition that is causing the spine to weaken or change shape, then treating the underlying disorder may stop the progression of the curve. When a doctor identifies osteoporosis early, it is treatable. They may recommend vitamin D supplements, weight-bearing exercise, or for females, hormone therapy.

Exercises for kyphosis: A physiotherapist can recommend exercises and stretches to strengthen the back and abdominal muscles, such as:

• Knee rolls
• Pelvic tilting
• Knees to chest

Effective management of Kyphosis at Spine Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Centre (SPTRC) in Shyamoli requires teamwork among medical professionals and patients, which in turn improves the patients' quality of life.

Click for Appointment