Introduction
Kyphosis is a spinal disorder involving an excessive outward curve that causes an abnormal rounding of the upper back. It occurs when the spinal bones (vertebrae) in the upper back (thoracic spine) become wedge-shaped and cause deformity. Kyphosis is sometimes called dowager's hump, hunchback, or roundback. It is most common among elderly people, but can happen at any age. There are four main types of kyphosis:
Postural kyphosis. This type is caused by poor posture or slouching. It does not involve severe abnormalities in the bone structure of the spine. This is the most common type of kyphosis and usually becomes noticeable during adolescence.
Congenital kyphosis. This is when the spinal column fails to develop normally while in the womb. You are born with this type of kyphosis.
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In this type of kyphosis, several of the vertebrae are more triangular in shape for unknown reasons. The curved spine usually becomes noticeable during adolescence.
Osteoporotic kyphosis. This type is caused by thinning and loss of bone density (osteoporosis), which results in small breaks (compression fractures) in the thoracic vertebrae that causes them to become wedge-shaped over time.
What are the causes?
Kyphosis may be caused by abnormal development in the womb (congenital) poor posture (postural), osteoporosis (osteoporotic), or the cause may not be known (Scheuermann's). Other possible causes of kyphosis include:
Certain syndromes, such as Marfan syndrome or Prader-Willi disease.
Cancer and cancer treatments. Cancer and its treatment can weaken the vertebrae and cause compression fractures.
Disk degeneration. This refers to the soft, circular disks between the vertebrae drying out and shrinking as part of the natural aging process.
What are the signs or symptoms?
The symptoms of kyphosis vary based on the cause and how severe the curve is. Symptoms may include:
Rounded