Kyphosis

Kyphosis (sometimes called hunchback) refers to a condition where the spine is abnormally rounded in a forward direction, beyond the 40 degrees.

• Congenital kyphosis is present at birth and can run in families.
• Postural kyphosis is caused by persistent slouching and poor posture.
• Structural kyphosis is caused by:
• Arthritis of the spine
• Vertebrae fracture due to bone-density loss associated with aging (osteoporosis)
• One vertebrae slips forward and past another (spondylolisthesis)
• Disk degeneration
• Trauma
• Tumors
• Neuromuscular diseases, such as muscular dystrophy, polio and spina bifida
• Developmental. The curve shows up during a growth spurt in adolescence for no known cause (Scheuermann's Disease).

What Are the Symptoms of Kyphosis?

• Rounded back
• Spine feels stiff, achy or painful
• Fatigue after standing for a short while
• In severe cases, breathing difficulties

When to Seek Treatment?

The earlier kyphosis is treated, the better the result. Left untreated, it can lead to chronic back pain and deformity. In severe cases, kyphosis can cause difficulty in breathing because the ribs press on the lungs and heart or neurological problems such as leg weakness.

How Is Kyphosis Evaluated?

• Your physician will conduct a physical exam to assess the shape, location, direction, angle and extent of the curve
• A pulmonary function test will assess whether breathing is affected
• X-rays will confirm the diagnosis and pinpoint the degree of the curvature
• An MRI may be prescribed if the physician suspects that the spinal cord is affected

How Is Kyphosis Treated?

Stamford Hospital offers both non-surgical and surgical treatment for kyphosis, depending on the severity of the curve and the age of the patient.

Postural kyphosis can often be helped with non-surgical treatment, such as:

• Physical therapy
• Back-strengthening exercises
• Switching to a firmer mattress

Structural kyphosis usually results in a mild curve and may only require monitoring with regular checkups and X-rays.

• A more severe curve in children and adolescence may need to be braced during the growing years. While this won't correct the curve, it will keep it from progressing. Note: Today's modern braces are generally pliable, can be worn undetected under clothing and may be removed for sports or participation in other activities.
• Some cases benefit from physical therapy.
• Adults may find a brace helpful in controlling pain and discomfort.

Surgical Options

In cases where curvature is severe or neurological symptoms are involved, surgery may be the best solution. Children with congenital kyphosis typically benefit from corrective surgery at a young age.

Surgical options may include:

• Fusion: Verterbal bones are fused, using new bone for connection.
• Vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty: These procedures involve injecting a cement-like substance into the affected vertebrae, which can be quite effective in controlling pain associated with compression fractures.