Kyphosis in Barranquilla, Colombia

What is kyphosis?

It is an excessive forward curve of the upper back that gives a hunched or rounded appearance. A slight curve in that area is normal; it is called kyphosis when it is larger than expected.

What types are there?

Postural kyphosis, from poor habits, is flexible and improves with exercise. Scheuermann's disease appears in teenagers due to wedge-shaped vertebrae and creates a rigid curve. In older adults, the most common cause is vertebral fractures from osteoporosis.

How is it treated?

With physical therapy to strengthen the back and correct posture. Teenagers with Scheuermann's may wear a brace while growing. In adults with osteoporosis, bone fragility is treated, and some fractures can be managed with vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty. Surgery is reserved for large, progressive curves or spinal cord compression.

When should you seek help?

If the back is becoming more rounded, there is persistent pain, older adults are losing height, or a teenager cannot straighten their back even when trying.

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