Postural Kyphosis Exercise

Postural kyphosis is the most minor of all forms of kyphosis. It may show up during adolescence and may be passed off as slumping unless diagnosed. Once diagnosed, postural kyphosis may be corrected with a few strengthening exercises that target the "posture muscles" of the trapezius and rhomboids.

Lateral Raises

• This is a difficult exercise because it is performed by keeping the arms straight. Unlike a bent arm lateral raise, you may not be able to use a very heavy weight. To perform this exercise, grip the dumbbells in your hands and rotate your arms so that your elbows face outward rather than downward. Keep your elbows only slightly bent. Lift your arms straight out. Do not let them raise higher than your shoulders. As you lift them, imagine a tiny string is attached to your elbow, not your wrist, and that is what is pulling your arm up. When your arms have lifted to shoulder height, lower and repeat.

Cat Stretch

• Position yourself on the floor on your hands and knees. Slowly let your back and abdomen sag toward the floor. Then slowly arch your back as if you were pulling your back and abdomen toward the ceiling. Return to starting position and repeat.

Upright Row

• The upright row targets the upper back, shoulders and biceps all at once. Keep your hands close together and use a short range of motion to get the most effective, safest shoulder workout. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and the weights waist high with your palms turned inward. Bend your elbows and pull the weights up until they are chest level. Your elbows should be slightly above the shoulders and your wrists should be straight. Lower the weights and repeat.