Kyphosis – Symptoms and Causes

Overview

Kyphosis refers to an extreme forward curve in the upper back area. This condition often affects older adults due to weakened spine bones that may compress or break.

Different forms of kyphosis can also develop in babies or teenagers. This usually happens because of spine formation problems or gradual wedging of the bones in the spine.

When kyphosis is mild, it typically doesn’t cause many issues. However, severe cases can lead to pain and visible deformity. The treatment approach varies based on the patient’s age, what caused the curve, and how serious the curve has become.

Signs and Symptoms

People with mild kyphosis may not notice any symptoms. The upper back naturally has a small curve.

Curved Upper Spine

A rounded upper back or hunched posture is one of the first visible signs. The spine curves outward more than normal, creating a rounded appearance when viewed from the side.

Forward Head Position

The head may stick out in front of the body rather than aligning properly with the shoulders. This happens as the body tries to balance itself with the curved spine.

Uneven Shoulders

One shoulder might appear higher than the other. This unevenness can be noticed when looking at someone from the front or back.

Protruding Shoulder Blades

The shoulder blades may stick out more than normal, creating a winged appearance on the back.

Pain and Discomfort

Some people experience back pain and stiffness, especially after standing or sitting for long periods. The pain typically occurs in the upper and middle back areas.

Mobility and Function Issues

Daily activities might become harder. Bending, reaching overhead, or turning may be limited or painful.

Severe Cases

In more serious conditions, breathing problems may occur as the curved spine affects lung capacity. Digestive issues can also happen due to compression of internal organs.

When to Seek Medical Help

See a doctor if you notice changes in posture, persistent back pain, or difficulty with normal activities.

If you notice that your upper back curve is getting bigger, or if you see an increasing curve in your child’s spine, you should schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider right away.

What Causes Spinal Curvature

Spinal curvature happens when vertebrae (the bones in your spine) change from a cylinder shape to more of a wedge shape.

Several factors can lead to this condition:

• Bone fractures can change the spine’s shape. Compression fractures are most common, especially in weakened bones. You might not even notice mild fractures at first.
• Weak bones from conditions like osteoporosis can cause the spine to curve. This happens more often in older women and people who have taken steroid medications for a long time.
• The breakdown of spinal disks also contributes to curvature. These cushion-like disks between vertebrae flatten and shrink with age, which can worsen the curve.
• Scheuermann’s disease typically appears during the teen years and causes abnormal spine development.
• Other causes include:
  • Birth defects affecting spinal bones
  • Certain medical conditions in children
  • Degenerative changes related to aging

The spine may curve more over time if the underlying cause isn’t addressed, especially with age-related changes or ongoing bone weakness.

Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the chance of developing kyphosis:

• Age: Adults face a higher risk as they get older due to decreasing bone density and spinal disk degeneration.
• Genetic Conditions: Children with certain inherited disorders may develop kyphosis, including:
  • Osteogenesis imperfecta
  • Ehlers-Danlos syndrome
  • Marfan syndrome

These conditions affect bone formation or connective tissue strength, which can lead to spinal curvature problems.

Health Issues Caused by Kyphosis

Kyphosis affects more than just the spine’s appearance. This condition can lead to several health problems that impact daily life.

Physical Limitations

• Weakened back muscles
• Difficulty walking
• Trouble getting up from chairs
• Problems looking upward
• Challenges while driving
• Discomfort when lying down

Digestive System Problems

When kyphosis becomes severe, the curved spine can press against the digestive organs. This pressure may cause:

• Acid reflux
• Swallowing difficulties
• Digestive discomfort

Pain Issues

Back pain is common in people with significant kyphosis. The pain often relates to how curved the spine has become and may worsen over time without treatment.

Mental Health Concerns

The visible curve of the spine can affect how people feel about themselves. This is especially true for teenagers, who may develop poor body image or feel self-conscious about their appearance.