Definition and Treatment of Kyphosis

Kyphosis is "a curvature of the spine measuring 40 degrees or greater on an x-ray," according to the University of Virginia Health System. Those suffering from kyphosis often appear to have humped upper backs. This condition can be congenital or caused by various conditions and diseases. Treatment based on age, health, severity of the condition and other factors will be aimed at stopping further spinal curvature and deformity.

Types

• There are several types of kyphosis. Scheuermann's disease, often referred to as adolescent kyphosis, is caused by "irregularly shaped intervertebral discs (the cartilaginous sacs between vertebrae) and vertebrae," according to the University of California Davis Spine Center. This type of kyphosis occurs during adolescence and can cause pain for sufferers. Postural kyphosis causes the same unusual spinal angle, though vertebrae and discs are normal and the condition is not normally painful. Kyphosis can also occur in patients who suffer from osteoporosis, trauma and scoliosis, another condition marked by abnormal spine curvature.

Observation

• Observation through frequent, regularly scheduled examinations may be the first line of treatment in some cases. Those suffering from painless kyphosis caused by osteoporosis are likely candidates for observation, according to the University of California Davis Spine Center. Children with kyphosis also benefit from examinations to monitor the progression of the spinal curve, which should stop or slow considerably at puberty, according to the University of Virginia Health System.

Bracing

• Wearing a brace is typical in the treatment of kyphosis in children who are still growing. The type of brace and time spent wearing it will vary depending on individual circumstances and should be decided upon by the treating physician, according to the University of Virgina Health System.

Surgery

• Surgery may be best in some cases, such as when kyphosis during childhood is caused by structural problems. Surgical treatment is also indicated when the curve measures 75 degrees or more and bracing is not effective in slowing down spinal curving, according to the University of Virginia Health System. Surgery may be useful in sufferers of adolescent kyphosis with persistent pain and in some cases of kyphosis caused by trauma, osteoporosis, infection or tumors, according to the University of California Davis Spine Center.

Physical Therapy

• Improvement in postural kyphosis in either adolescents or adults can be realized through exercise and physical therapy; these activities should focus on strengthening supporting muscles in the back. Adolescent kyphosis may also benefit from exercise and physical therapy, often combined with other treatment such as bracing, according to the University of California Davis Spine Center.