Signs and Causes of Kyphosis

 

Kyphosis refers to a spinal condition that results in a forward curvature of the vertebrae in the upper back. According to Dr. Jay McClanahan of Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center, with an office that serves the greater Nitro, WV, area, normal upper back kyphosis has a range that exists between 10 and 50 degrees. However, excessive or hyper-kyphosis can cause your upper back to appear more rounded – sometimes called “a round back” or a “hunch-backed.”

Signs of Kyphosis

Mild cases of kyphosis typically cause no obvious signs or symptoms. When the condition becomes moderate or more severe, the following may also be experienced as additional symptoms of hyper-kyphosis –

• Shortness of breath.
• Back pain or discomfort.
• The head bends forward.
• Back stiffness restricts movement.
• Tingling sensations in the legs.
• Tight hamstrings.

Causes of Kyphosis

There are several types of kyphosis. These include the following -

• Postural kyphosis refers to a curvature of the spine.
    This type of kyphosis is typically caused by constant slouching, poor posture, or by toting heavy items on your back.
• Scheuermann’s kyphosis is developmental and happens during bone growth spurts.
    This type of kyphosis is caused by a spinal structural deformity in which vertebrae grow in a wedge shape rather than rectangularly.
• Congenital kyphosis refers to a curvature of the spine that occurs during gestation.
    This type of kyphosis occurs when vertebrae do not segment/form in the womb.

If the spine’s curvature becomes extreme (beyond expected or established ranges), any of the above-mentioned is considered hyper-kyphosis.

Prevention of Postural Kyphosis

Fortunately, there are ways to proactively prevent postural kyphosis. This is accomplished by addressing known risk factors that encourage the development of this condition. Following the guidance noted below will help you reduce your risk of developing a spinal curvature or hyper-kyphosis -

• Do not carry excess weight, and try to maintain a healthy, recommended weight.
• Be mindful of your posture, and try to maintain good posture.
• Be consistent with exercises that help to strengthen your back and abdominal muscles.
• Carry heavy loads in backpacks or rolling bags rather than on the shoulders.

Note that Kyphosis is only one type of spinal curvature.

• Lordosis refers to an inward spinal curve - causing an arching of the lower back.
• Scoliosis refers to a curve to the left or right.

A spine typically has a certain amount of upper back kyphosis and lower back lordosis.

Contact a Leading Nitro, WV Chiropractor Near You

If you would like additional information on how chiropractic care can help with kyphosis, contact Dr. McClanahan or a member of our team at Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center at 304-776-1520 or online.