Ying H. Chen, DO, FACOS
Neurosurgeon
Kyphosis is a spinal condition that results in an exaggerated curve of the spinal cord when viewed from the side. It can cause significant pain and discomfort, as well as impaired movement and posture. Kyphosis affects people of all ages but is most common among older adults and children between 10-15.
If you or someone you know is exhibiting spinal curvature and symptoms of kyphosis, schedule an appointment with us at OrthoNeuro for diagnosis and treatment. Our professional team of orthopedic spine specialists in Columbus, Ohio can provide personalized care to help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with spinal conditions like kyphosis. Start your journey to a healthier spinal cord today!
What Is Kyphosis?
Kyphosis Definition: Kyphosis is a spinal deformity that results in an exaggerated curvature of the spine. It affects the upper back, causing a severe curve to form between the shoulder blades.
In individuals with kyphosis, this spinal curvature can appear as an outward hump or a forward rounding of the back. It is most commonly seen in adolescents during puberty but can also affect adults due to age-related issues such as poor posture and osteoporosis.
In most cases, kyphosis is relatively harmless. However, if left untreated, it may cause pain and limited mobility. Severe kyphosis (over 60 degrees) can lead to compression on nerves within the spinal cord, causing further problems with breathing, organ function, and posture.
What Are the Main Types of Kyphosis?
The three main types of kyphosis are postural, congenital, and Scheuermann’s.
Postural Kyphosis is caused by bad posture or slouching over time, which causes an excessive curvature in the upper back region. This condition is more common in elderly people who have weakened muscle strength due to age-related changes.
Congenital Kyphosis is a birth defect caused by malformation of vertebrae or bones in the spinal column that results in a curved spine at birth.
Scheuermann’s Kyphosis (also known as Juvenile Kyphosis) is caused by a developmental disorder in children that leads to wedge-shaped vertebrae and weakens the spine’s ability to hold up the body’s weight.
What Causes Kyphosis?
Kyphosis can be caused by a number of factors, including:
- Metabolic Issues
- Brittle Bone Disease (Osteogenesis Imperfecta)
- Disc Degeneration
- Degenerative Arthritis
- Neuromuscular Conditions
- Cancers or Cancer treatment
- Spinal Infections
- Spina Bifida
- Injury or trauma to the spine
- Compression fractures (due to age-related osteoporosis)
- What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Kyphosis?
The most common signs and symptoms of kyphosis include:
- An abnormal spinal curve
- Pain in the back and neck pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Poor posture
- Fatigue
- Reduced flexibility in the spine
In extreme cases, kyphosis can lead to spinal cord compression, which can lead to paralysis if left untreated. It is important for people with kyphosis to seek medical attention as soon as they start noticing any changes in their spine or associated symptoms.
How Is Kyphosis Diagnosed?
Kyphosis is diagnosed by physical examination and imaging. During the physical exam, a doctor will look for an excessive curvature of the spine that causes a visible “hump” in the back when bending forward.
X-rays or other imaging tests can also be used to verify the diagnosis and assess the severity of the condition. Imaging tests, such as CT scans and MRIs, can show how much space is between each of the spinal bones and may help identify any other underlying problems.
A doctor may also order blood tests to rule out any underlying medical issues that could be causing or contributing to kyphosis. Once kyphosis has been diagnosed, a treatment plan can be developed based on its severity and type.
How Is Kyphosis Treated?
Kyphosis can be treated through various methods, depending on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may not require any treatment at all and may simply improve with time. In more severe cases, however, treatments may include spinal fusion surgery, physical therapy, or bracing to help correct posture, as well as medications for pain relief.
In some severe cases, spine surgery is necessary to treat kyphosis. Surgery can repair or replace affected vertebrae and restore normal spinal alignment. Spinal fusion is a procedure where two or more vertebrae are surgically fused together with metal implants to help correct spinal curvature.
Physical therapy is used to improve posture, strengthen the back muscles, and promote flexibility. A brace may also be prescribed to provide external support for the spinal column and limit spinal movement.
Get Help From a Spinal Specialist
If you or someone you love is suffering from kyphosis, don’t wait any longer to get the treatment and relief you need. Contact us today at OrthoNeuro in Columbus, OH to learn more about treatment options that can help improve posture, mobility, and quality of life. We look forward to helping you feel your best again!
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- Back Pain
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- Epidural Steroid Injections
- Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Discectomy
- Minimally Invasive Spinal Fusion
- Minimally Invasive Laminectomy
- Minimally Invasive Cervical Spinal Fusion
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“I recently had surgery on my lower back. I had heard that such surgery would result in pain and cause me difficulties in doing ordinary daily tasks but, I experienced no pain and was able to do normal activities at home and at church. Also, being a bee keeper, I was able to work the hives and extract the honey from most of the hives”
James B.
Patient
