What Is Thoracic Kyphosis?

Thoracic kyphosis is a progressive disorder of the spine that affects people of all ages by causing the upper backbone area to curve forward more than normal, leading to pain and impairment.

Diagnosis Criteria

• A diagnosis of thoracic kyphosis is made when spinal curvature of the upper back is more than 50 degrees.

Types

• Postural and structural are the two classifications for thoracic kyphosis.

Features

• Postural thoracic kyphosis is caused by bad posture and a person can correct the problem on his own. Structural thoracic kyphosis is caused by abnormalities of the bones, intervertebral discs, ligaments, nerves or muscles and usually requires help from medical professionals.

Symptoms

• Symptoms associated with thoracic kyphosis include joint and musculoskeletal pain, backache and tension headaches.

Treatment

• Treatment of thoracic kyphosis depends on which type is present. Treatment includes surgical reconstruction and bracing, along with treating underlying conditions such as osteoporosis to prevent further softening of the bone.