What is Kyphosis?

 Kyphosis refers to a medical condition in which the upper spine has an abnormal curvature, causing the upper back to round forward. Kyphosis could lead to hunched posture without a proper diagnosis and treatment. If you are challenged by this condition, Dr. Jay McClanahan of Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center in Nitro, WV can help manage Kyphosis and its symptoms.

The Four Types of Kyphosis

The following are the various kyphosis types -

Postural Kyphosis

This type is among the most common kyphosis. It often manifests in those of adolescent age and is caused by a combination of poor posture and a muscle imbalance instead of a structural issue or problem of the spine. Fortunately, this type of kyphosis is typically reversible with appropriate treatment and exercises that lead to posture correction.

Scheuermann's Kyphosis

Typically developing during adolescence, Scheuermann’s Kyphosis refers to an abnormal growth on one of the spine’s vertebrae. This type of kyphosis creates an inflexible and immovable curvature of the spine. Note that this condition can be painful and may require medical intervention/braces in those cases that are more serious.

Nutritional Kyphosis

Nutritional kyphosis typically develops in childhood for those severely malnourished or seriously deficient in vitamin D. Poor nutrition can lead to weakened bones, spinal deformities, and a hunched or rounded upper back.

Age-Related Kyphosis

This kind of kyphosis – often referred to as dowager’s hump- typically happens to aging individuals, especially those afflicted with osteoporosis. The osteoporosis condition weakens the spine’s vertebrae, which may result in compression fractures that round the spine in the upper back region.  

Congenital Kyphosis

Congenital Kyphosis refers to an abnormal development of the vertebrae that is present at birth. Congenital Kyphosis varies in severity and may require a medical/surgical intervention to repair a deformed spine.

Kyphosis Treatment Options

The options to manage the kyphosis condition will be contingent on its specific underlying cause, the curvature’s severity, and your symptoms. Mild cases are usually successfully managed with chiropractic adjustments, therapeutic exercises, posture correction, physical therapy, and lifestyle choices that lead to a healthy weight.

Call a Leading Nitro, WV Chiropractor for a Consultation Today

If you or someone you know/love suspect you may have kyphosis, contact Dr. McClanahan or a member of our staff of Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center at 304-776-1520 or reach out using our online contact form for an accurate diagnosis and a personalized chiropractic treatment plan.