Kyphosis

Kyphosis is a spinal deformity that can result from trauma, developmental problems, or degenerative disease. Kyphosis can occur at any age, although it is rare at birth.

Adolescent kyphosis, also known as Scheuermann's disease, results from the wedging together of several consecutive vertebrae (bones of the spine). The cause of Scheuermann's disease is unknown.

In adults, kyphosis can be a result of osteoporotic compression fractures (fractures caused by osteoporosis), degenerative disease (such as arthritis), or spondylolisthesis (slipping of one vertebra forward on another).

Other causes of kyphosis include the following:

Symptoms of Kyphosis

• Mild back pain
• Fatigue
• Tenderness and stiffness in the spine
• Round back appearance
• Difficulty breathing (in severe cases)

Diagnosis of Kyphosis

A quick look at the back will usually identify kyphosis. X rays of the spine will confirm the diagnosis and identify its cause.

Treatment of Kyphosis

Congenital defects have to be repaired surgically. The procedures are delicate, complicated, and lengthy. Often orthopedic hardware must be placed to stabilize the back bone. At other times, a device called a Milwaukee brace can hold the back in place from the outside. Fitting Milwaukee braces comfortably is difficult because they tend to rub and cause sores.

Kyphosis acquired during the younger years requires treatment directed at the cause, such as medications for tuberculosis. Surgical reconstruction or bracing may also be necessary.

Other causes of Kyphosis

• Infection (such as tuberculosis)
• Neurofibromatosis
• Connective tissue disorders
• Muscular dystrophy
• Spina bifida (a birth defect involving incomplete formation of part of the spine)
• Disk degeneration
• Certain endocrine diseases
• Paget's disease
• Polio
• Tumors

Kyphosis induced by osteoporosis is generally not treated except to prevent further bone softening.

Prognosis of Kyphosis

Congenital kyphosis may be alleviated to some extent by surgery and bracing. Kyphosis occurring later in life may worsen over time.

Prevention of Kyphosis

Preventing osteoporosis is within the grasp of modern medicine. Menopausal women must start early with estrogen replacement, calcium supplementation, and appropriate exercise. The treatment must continue through the remainder of life. Evidence suggests that a high calcium intake even during younger years delays the onset of symptomatic osteoporosis. Dairy products are the major dietary sources of calcium.