The human spine features several natural
curvatures which help our bodies move and remain balanced. The thoracic spine
has some degree of a rounded curvature. Kyphosis is an abnormally rounded back. It is a condition that
may affect children, teenagers and adults. On Examination the doctor asks the
patient to bend forward, to reveal any spinal deformities. This is called the
“Adam’s forward bend test.”
Causes
The cause for Scheuermann’s Kyphosis is unknown.
It may be caused by abnormal growth of the vertebra in which the front part
stops growing before the back part does. This growth abnormality causes
wedge-shaped vertebral bodies, which create an abnormally rounded thoracic
spine. It typically progresses during puberty. Kyphosis may also be caused by
vertebral compression fractures (due to tumors or weak bone) or degenerative
bone conditions, such as arthritis.
Types
of Kyphosis - Congenital
Kyphosis occurs when the spinal column does not develop properly while the
fetus is still in the womb. The vertebrae do not properly form as they should,
or some vertebrae may be fused together. The spinal cord may be at risk of
injury with congenital kyphosis. Surgery is frequently necessary. Postural Kyphosis is the most common
type of kyphosis. It becomes noticeable during adolescence, is more common
among females than males, and rarely causes pain. It is a non-surgical problem.
Scheuermann’s
Kyphosis is the most common type of kyphosis often
requiring surgery. Boys are affected more often than are girls. The upper back
gradually appears more rounded, and there may be accompanying back pain that
worsens during the day and is relieved with rest. Pain, if present, is
typically felt at the most curved point of the spine and can be aggravated by
activity or prolonged periods of sitting or standing. Lower back pain also frequently develops. The
distinguishing factor between postural kyphosis and Scheuermann’s kyphosis on
physical examination is rigidity of the spine.
Few
Facts on Kyphosis
·
Family History- Some types of
Kyphosis run in the family, so it may be a genetic cause
·
Date of Onset of Kyphosis helps
understand the seriousness of the disorder
·
The presence or absence of pain
– Not all Kyphosis produce pain
·
Bowel or bladder dysfunction –
Any problem in urinating or bowel movement indicates serious nerve damage
·
Motor functions – Any change in
motor functions indicates pressure on nerves or spinal cord.
·
Previous Surgery – Any surgery
on spine might lead to kyphosis due to weakened muscles.
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