What Is Kyphosis?

Kyphosis is an excessive forward rounding of the neck or back. While the spine naturally has a minor degree of curvature, kyphosis involves a more pronounced rounding – up to 90 percent forward – which is typically caused by an anatomical abnormality that results from a degenerative condition, such as osteoporosis or disc degeneration. Birth defects can also cause kyphosis.

What are the symptoms of kyphosis?

The primary symptom of kyphosis is a visibly rounded neck or back. People with this condition may have a slouching or “humpback” appearance.

Other potential complications include:

• Chronic neck or back pain
• Muscle spasms and/or muscle weakness
• Difficulty bending or twisting the spine

A relatively mild degree of kyphosis may be little more than an inconvenience. More pronounced spinal rounding, however, can make it difficult to walk or exercise. Day-to-day activities, such as driving and working at a computer, can become difficult as well.

Kyphosis treatment

In many instances, it’s possible to restore proper spinal alignment through physical therapy and corrective bracing. Medications and chiropractic adjustments can also help relieve neck or back pain caused by kyphosis. Surgery is necessary only in the most advanced cases, but it can be helpful if a nerve or nerve root in the spine becomes compressed.

If you’ve been diagnosed with kyphosis (or have noticed significant, involuntary changes in your posture), you can turn to Advanced Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine of Houston for comprehensive care. We offer state-of-the-art diagnostic services and treatments under one roof at three convenient locations throughout the area.

Whenever possible, our spine care specialists recommend conservative therapies for kyphosis. When necessary, however, we perform both traditional and minimally invasive spine surgery, offering additional options for relief when conservative therapies do not produce the desired results.

For more information about kyphosis treatment at Advanced Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine of Houston, Texas, contact us today.