Kyphosis

A normal spine, when viewed from behind appears straight. However, a spine affected by kyphosis has a forward curvature of the back bones (vertebrae) in the upper back area, giving an abnormally rounded or “humpback” appearance. This is sometimes known as roundback or a dowager’s hump.

Kyphosis is a curvature of the spine measuring 50 degrees or greater on an X-ray. The normal spine can bend from 20 to 45 degrees of curvature in the upper back area. Kyphosis is a type of spinal deformity.

What causes kyphosis?

A child can be born with kyphosis (congenital) or it can be caused by the following conditions:

Metabolic problems
Neuromuscular conditions
Brittle bone disease (osteogenesis imperfecta). A condition that causes bones to fracture with minimal force.
Spina bifida. A neural tube defect.
Scheuermann disease. A condition that causes the vertebrae to curve forward in the upper back area. The cause of Scheuermann disease is unknown and is commonly seen in males.
Postural kyphosis. The most common type of kyphosis. It generally becomes noticeable in adolescence and can be associated with slouching versus a spinal abnormality. Exercise is used to help correct posture.

Kyphosis is more common in females than males.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call:

SBL Bonutti Clinic at 217 342-3400, or
SBL Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at 217 238-3435

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