Symptoms
Kyphosis may not produce any noticeable symptoms, but some people experience back pain and stiffness in addition to an abnormally curved spine.
Consult a doctor if you notice an increased curvature in your upper back or in your child's spine.
Reasons
Fractures: Broken vertebrae (compression fractures) may cause the spine to curve
Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis may cause the spine to curve, especially if weak vertebrae lead to compression fractures.
Disc degeneration: Soft, circular discs act as cushions between the spinal vertebrae. With age, these discs dry out and shrink.
Scheuermann's disease: Also called Scheuermann's hump, this disease usually begins during a growth spurt that occurs before puberty. Boys are affected more than girls.
Congenital malformations: The bones of the spine that do not develop properly before birth can cause kyphosis.
Syndromes: Kyphosis in children can be accompanied by some syndromes, such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and Marfan syndrome.
Complications
Breathing problems: Severe kyphosis can put pressure on the lungs
Limited physical function: Kyphosis is associated with weak back muscles and difficulty performing tasks such as walking and getting up from chairs
Digestion problems: Severe kyphosis can put pressure on the digestive system, causing problems such as acid reflux and difficulty swallowing.
Diagnosis
X-ray examination or computerized tomography examination.
Magnetic resonance imaging.
Nerve tests: if you experience numbness or muscle weakness
Bone densitometry test
Treatment
Pain relievers
- Osteoporosis medications
- exercises
- body brace
- surgery
