Kyphosis
Kyphosis is a spinal deformity causing a forward curvature of the back, resulting in slouched posture or hunchback. While some rounding can be considered normal, kyphosis usually indicates a more severe and exaggerated curve.
Kyphosis can occur at any age but is more commonly diagnosed in elderly women. In a normal spine, vertebrae sit evenly spaced on top of one another. In cases of kyphosis, the vertebrae become crushed together, creating a wedge shape.
Causes of Kyphosis
- Osteoporosis – Osteoporosis is a bone disease in which the density and quality of bones are reduced. This bone-thinning disorder can result in compression fractures or crushed vertebrae.
- Poor Posture – Constant slouching can put added pressure on the vertebrae causing a curvature of the spine over time.
- Scheuermann’s Disease – Scheuermann’s disease is a condition that develops in adolescents, often times during a growth spurt before puberty. More common in boys, Scheuermann’s disease creates a rounding of the back but is very treatable and can often times be reversed.
- Birth Defects – Babies can develop kyphosis after birth if their spine doesn’t form correctly in the womb.
If left untreated, kyphosis causes chronic back pain. In more severe cases, it can cause a decrease in appetite due to added pressure on the abdomen. That is why it’s crucial to seek treatment at the early signs of kyphosis.
At Whole Body Health, we can determine if you have kyphosis through a physical examination of your spine as well as using X-ray imaging to determine the level of severity. Using a combination of chiropractic adjustments, physical therapy, proper nutrition to reduce inflammation, and practicing healthy lifestyle choices, we can help you reduce the curvature of your spine and potentially eliminate kyphosis altogether.
