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Kyphosis is a forward rounding of the back that is excessive. It can happen at any age, but it is most frequent in older women.
Age-related kyphosis is frequently caused by spinal bone weakening, which leads them to compress or crack. Other types of kyphosis can develop in infants or teenagers as a result of spinal deformity or wedging of the spinal bones throughout time.
Mild kyphosis generates minimal complications. Pain and disfigurement can result from severe kyphosis. Treatment for kyphosis is determined on your age as well as the origin and effects of the curvature.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF KYPHOSIS?
The basic sign of kyphosis is rounded shoulders or an upper back hump. Tight hamstrings (thigh muscles in the back) can also be a symptom.
People with a more severe curvature may experience additional symptoms such as:
- Back and shoulder blade pain or stiffness
- Shortness of breath or other breathing difficulties as a result of the spine pressing against the airways
- Problems with balance.
- Legs that are numb and tingly.
- Extreme exhaustion.
- Incontinence of the bladder or bowel.
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF KYPHOSIS?
Individual bones (vertebrae) in a healthy spine resemble cylinders arranged in a column. Kyphosis occurs when the upper back vertebrae become more wedge-shaped.
The following conditions can result in abnormal vertebrae:
- Fractures: Broken or crushed vertebrae (compression fractures) can cause spinal curvature. Mild compression fractures rarely cause visible indications or symptoms.
- Osteoporosis: This bone-thinning condition can result in spinal curvature, especially if weaker vertebrae induce compression fractures. Osteoporosis is especially common in older women and persons who have used corticosteroids for a long time.
- Birth defects: Kyphosis can be caused by spinal bones that do not form properly before birth.
- Syndromes: Children's kyphosis can also be connected with syndromes such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and Marfan syndrome.
- Cancer and its therapies: Cancer in the spine, as well as chemotherapy and radiation cancer therapies, can weaken vertebrae and make them more prone to compression fractures.
- Disk deterioration: Soft, round disks serve as cushions between the vertebrae of the spine. These disks dry up and shrink with age, which generally causes kyphosis.
- Scheuermann's disease: This illness, also known as Scheuermann's kyphosis, usually originates during the growth spurt that occurs before puberty. Boys are more frequently impacted than girls.
WHAT ARE THE COMPLICATIONS OF KYPHOSIS?
Kyphosis can induce the following symptoms in addition to back pain:
- Breathing difficulties: Serious kyphosis can put pressure on the lungs.
- Physical abilities are restricted: Kyphosis is characterized by weaker back muscles and difficulties walking and getting out of seats. The curvature of the spine can also make it difficult to glance upward or drive, and it might cause pain when lying down.
- Digestive issues: Severe kyphosis can compress the digestive tract, causing acid reflux and swallowing difficulties.
- Body image issues: People with kyphosis, particularly adolescents, may acquire a negative body image as a result of having a rounded back or wearing a brace to cure the condition. Poor body image might contribute to social isolation in older adults.
HOW IS KYPHOSIS DIAGNOSED?
In most cases, your doctor will perform a comprehensive physical examination, including measuring your height. Your doctor may ask you to lean forward from the waist as he examines your spine from the side. A neurological exam may also be performed by your doctor to assess your reflexes and muscle strength.
Following an evaluation of your signs and symptoms, your doctor may recommend:
- CT scans or X-rays: X-rays can detect vertebral abnormalities and determine the degree of curvature. If your doctor requires more detailed images, a CT scan may be advised.
- MRI: These images can be used to detect an infection or a tumor in your spine.
- Nerve tests: If you have numbness or muscle weakness, your doctor may offer testing to see how well nerve impulses pass between your spinal cord and your extremities.
- Bone density tests: Kyphosis can be exacerbated by low-density bone.
WHAT ARE THE TREATMENTS FOR KYPHOSIS?
The treatment for kyphosis is determined by the cause and severity of your problem.
Medications
Your doctor may advise you to use the following medications:
- Pain relievers: If over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol, etc.), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, etc.), or naproxen sodium (Aleve) aren't adequate, stronger pain relievers are available via prescription.
- Osteoporosis medications: Medication that strengthens your bones may help you avoid further spinal fractures that might worsen your kyphosis.
Therapy
Certain kinds of kyphosis can be managed with therapy. Your doctor may advise you to:
- Exercises: Stretching exercises may aid in the improvement of spinal flexibility and the relief of back pain.
- Bracing: Children with Scheuermann's illness may be able to prevent kyphosis progression by wearing a body brace while their bones are still forming.
Surgical and other procedures
For severe kyphosis that is squeezing the spinal cord or nerve roots, surgery may be recommended. The most common technique for minimizing the degree of curvature is spinal fusion. The surgeon inserts bone fragments between the vertebrae, then fastens the vertebrae together with metal rods and screws until the spine heals in the correct position.
Your doctor may advise you to do the following to help you maintain good bone density:
- Consuming a calcium and vitamin D-rich diet
- Tobacco abstinence
- Consuming alcohol in moderation
CONCLUSION
Kyphosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine. It gives you a "hunchback" appearance and can make you feel self-conscious. You may not be in pain right now, but if the curve worsens, it might cause pain, stiffness, and other issues. Regular X-rays to monitor the curve, physical therapy, and, in some situations, a back brace may be used to treat postural kyphosis and Scheuermann's kyphosis. Spinal fusion surgery can reduce pain and rectify the curvature in congenital kyphosis (including severe Scheuermann's kyphosis).