Kyphosis
In layman’s terms, adult kyphosis is referred to as a dowager’s hump. Kyphosis is an abnormal forward curve in the thoracic spine (upper back). When viewed from the side, each region of a healthy spine has a natural curve. Degenerative disease, vertebral compression fractures, or trauma can cause spinal misalignment, leading to the development of kyphosis. In some cases, mild kyphosis causes few problems; however, kyphosis may sometimes indicate the presence of multiple vertebral compression fractures. In severe cases, a kyphotic deformity can reduce the space in your chest cavity, making it difficult to breathe, eat, or sleep normally.
Conditions that may contribute to the development of kyphosis include:
- Osteoporosis, a disease that causes low bone density and fracture
- Vertebral compression fracture
- Degenerative spine disorders (e.g. degenerative disc disease)
- Infections of the spine that cause joint destruction
- Congenital deformities, connectives tissue diseases
Symptoms
Kyphosis symptoms may include:
- Dowager’s hump, postural changes, rounded shoulders
- Back pain ranging from mild to severe
- Fatigue
- Difficulty breathing (uncommon)
Accurate Diagnosis Essential
Doctor Frazier reviews your medical history, performs a physical exam, and asks questions about your symptoms, treatments tried, hereditary disorders, existing conditions, and lifestyle.
X-rays will often indicate the presence of vertebral compression fractures. If the fractures occurred a long time ago and are not clearly visible on x-ray, Dr. Frazier may order additional imaging studies.
Non-surgical Treatment
Treatment for kyphosis depends on the underlying condition (cause) and the degree of physical impairment.
- Monitor height, as height loss can indicate ongoing vertebral compression fractures
- Medication to treat osteoporosis
- Physical therapy, exercises to strengthen back muscles
- Analgesics to relieve pain
- Bracing (severe cases only)
When Spine Surgery May Be Recommended
A surgical recommendation may be made if your kyphosis continues to worsen, and/or your pain is unrelenting. Neurological problems that develop may necessitate surgical intervention.
Surgical Treatment of Kyphosis
The goal of surgery is to correct the curvature. Typically, this is accomplished with spinal fusion. Minimally invasive procedures such as vertebroplasty and balloon kyphoplasty can stabilize vertebral compression fractures, as well as provide significant pain relief.
If Dr. Frazier recommends spine surgery, he will carefully explain to you:
- Why he recommends spine surgery
- How surgery may be of benefit
- Possible risks and complications
- When (how soon) surgical treatment is needed
- Procedure name and type
- How to prepare for surgery
- Surgery aftercare and recovery
Understanding your diagnosis and the particulars of your spine surgery is essential to making an informed treatment decision. Dr. Frazier and his professional staff have a deep commitment to patient education and welcome all questions.
Have you been diagnosed with Kyphosis? If you would like a consultative appointment with Dr. Frazier to treat your Kyphosis, please complete this form.
