What are the symptoms of kyphosis and how it can be cured?

Most of the time, kyphosis doesn’t cause health problems or need medical treatment. But it may make you feel self-conscious about how you look. In severe cases, kyphosis can cause pain or breathing problems. Severe kyphosis may require surgery to correct.

How is thoracolumbar scoliosis treated?

Depending on the severity of the curve and the risk for it getting worse, scoliosis can be treated with observation, bracing, or surgery. Orthopedic surgeons or neurosurgeons are often consulted if surgery is needed.

Is there a way to fix kyphosis?

In fact, postural kyphosis is rather easily corrected with education about proper posture and some retraining on how to sit and stand correctly. Treatment does not need to include casting, bracing, or exercise. However, strengthening the back muscles can help with proper posture.

How is the kyphosis of the thoracic spine measured?

The thoracic, or mid portion of the spine, normally has a kyphotic curve. The curves of the spine are usually measured in degrees. A thoracic kyphosis is normal when measured at 20-40 degrees. The cervical spine (neck) and lumbar spine (lower back) have “lordotic” curves that face the opposite direction – like a backward “C”.

Can you get kyphosis in the lower back?

Kyphosis can develop at any age and can affect both men and women. While the condition usually develops in the upper back (thoracic spine), it is also possible to develop kyphosis in the cervical spine (neck) or lumbar spine (lower back).

Which is the correct curvature of the thoracic spine?

The thoracic (rib cage) portion of the spine has a normal forward curvature, called “kyphosis,” which has a normal range (20 to 50 degrees). This combination of forward and reverse curves in the spine allows people to sit and stand upright.

What’s the difference between scoliosis and kyphosis?

The normal back has 20° to 45° of curvature in the upper back, and anything in excess of 45° is called kyphosis. Scoliosis is abnormal curvature of the spine in the coronal (lateral) plane. Scoliosis of between 10° and 20° is called mild.