Kyphosis
Kyphosis is a curvature of the spine from the side, unlike scoliosis which has a curve from the front. The most common location of increased kyphosis is in the thoracic spine. The normal thoracic spine has 20-40 degrees of kyphosis, however increased kyphosis above this range can give the appearance of a “hump” in the back. Majority of the time increased thoracic kyphosis is postural, not progressive and does not result in long term health consequences. Scheuermann’s kyphosis involves a more rigid kyphosis which can be progressive and associated with back pain.
Treatment
Observation
The overwhelming majority of patients with increased kyphosis is secondary to postural kyphosis, or flexible kyphosis which does not progress. Patients with minor increases in kyphosis who are asymptomatic can be monitored with clinical follow up and x-rays as needed.
Therapy/Hyperextension Exercises
Children with mild increase in kyphosis can sometimes benefit from physical therapy core and back strengthening, as well as for hyperextension exercises. Hyperextension exercises can help improve thoracic curvature in postural kyphosis and improve posture.
Surgery
When thoracic kyphosis is over 80 degrees it can continue to progress and often is symptomatic. Larger curves can be associated with long term health concerns, such as increasing deformity and back pain. For these reasons surgery is often recommended to improve the curve and prevent it from getting worse.