Kyphosis
The kyphosis curve is formed by the bones,
muscles and discs of the mid-back spine.
What is kyphosis
Kyphosis is the curve that determines the shape of your mid-back at the level of your shoulder blades (wing bone) . The kyphosis curve is formed by the bones, muscles and discs of the mid-back spine. Kyphosis curve has an angle known as the kyphosis angle which has normal range measured in degrees on an Xray. When the kyphosis angle exceeds a certain range it is known as hyperkyphosis.
Hyperkyphosis in young people is mainly caused by a structural change of the bones of the spine in adolescents. This type is known as scheuermmans kyphosis and patients will present with upper back stiffness. It is estimated to be found in 1-8% of the paediatric patients and its equally common in males and females. On an x-ray the bones of the spine will be wedged plus there is also degeneration of the disc.
Hyperkyphosis in the elderly is caused by normal aging which is decrease in muscle strength and degenerative changes of the spine. Fractures of the spine due to decrease in bone strength or due to falls can contribute to hyperkyphosis. Hyperkyphosis in the elderly can have negative health consequences like decreased physical performance.
There is another type hyperkyphosis known as postural hyperkyphosis. Postural kyphosis has no structural changes of the bones of the spine such as spine bone wedging and disc degeneration. The spine with postural kyphosis is flexible and responds well too being corrected.
Symptoms
- Mid-back stiffness and tightness.
- Mid-back pain.
- Slouched or rounded mid-back