Kyphosis is a deformity of the spinal column, describing an exaggerated curvature of the upper back. It often causes the formation of a hump back, which is the most apparent manifestation of this condition. Normally, when we view our spine from the side, slight inward curvatures are seen on the neck area and on the lower back. The upper back, the area anchoring the rib cage has a minimal outward curvature. The spine is naturally designed this way to support balance, which subsequently, minimizes our risks to trauma and injuries. When the outward curvature of the upper back demonstrates a curve of more than 40 – degrees, kyphosis is established. Further evaluation is necessary for the proper management of your curve.

Kyphosis is generally classified as postural or structural, denoting the cause of the deformity. Bad postures, particularly the habitual slouching of the back causes postural kyphosis. This type is most noticeable during adolescence, and typically affects the young females. Structural kyphosis, in most cases, results from congenital malformations of the spine or from childhood medical disorders, such as rickets and poliomyelitis. Scheuermann’s kyphosis, a structural kyphosis of an unknown cause mostly affects the adolescent boys. Structural kyphosis also result from bone diseases such vertebral tuberculosis, Paget’s disease, osteoporosis and degenerative arthritis.

The manifestations of kyphosis include mild to moderate back pain with an obvious abnormal rounding of the back. The person mostly complains of easy fatigability and muscle tenderness on the upper back. In severe cases, the cardiopulmonary functions are compromised, as a result of the structural alteration of the spine. The vital organs are displaced, particularly the lungs, which results to limited lung expansion during breathing. Difficulty of breathing and shortness of breath are commonly seen in compromised pulmonary functions. Secondary complications of the spine and neurological manifestations occur as kyphosis worsens. Bulging of the discs that cushion the vertebrae can occur, along with compression of the spinal nerves. This causes severe radiating pain from the hip to the back of the leg, numbness and tingling sensation on the affected leg, weakness and urinary and bowel incontinence.

Problems that Kyphosis can Develop ¦ Kyphosis Prevention ¦ Kyphosis Treatment