Kyphosis is a spinal condition characterized by an excessive forward curvature of the thoracic spine, leading to a lunched or rounded upper back. This curvature results in a slouched posture or what is sometimes called a humpback, hunchback, dowager's hump, round back, or arched back.
This condition can affect posture, mobility, and overall quality of life. Treatment options vary based on severity and underlying causes, and may include bracing, medication, physical therapy, or surgery.
Related services include:
Kyphosis is a spinal condition characterized by an excessive forward curvature of the thoracic spine, leading to a hunched or rounded upper back. While some curvature is normal, kyphosis occurs when the rounding exceeds 50 degrees.
This condition can affect people of any age, but is most commonly seen in older adults due to age-related degeneration of the spine.
Kyphosis can be classified into different types based on its cause and severity. Types of kyphosis include:
Present at birth, congenital kyphosis occurs due to improper spinal development in the womb. This form can worsen over time and may require early medical intervention.
There are two types of congenital kyphosis, including:
The most common type, postural kyphosis results from poor posture. It is typically mild and correctable with physical therapy and posture training.
Also known as juvenile kyphosis, this form develops before puberty due to abnormal vertebral growth, causing wedge-shaped vertebrae. The cause is unknown but may be linked to genetic and developmental factors.
Kyphosis may be caused by:
Kyphosis risk factors include:
Potential complications of kyphosis include:
Kyphosis can be managed or prevented through physical therapy and practicing proper body mechanics and posture. A physical therapist can give you a regimen of exercises or stretches to follow.
Kyphosis is a common age-related condition that normally occurs after age 40. An estimated 20-40 percent of adults over age 60 have hyperkyphosis, a severe form of kyphosis.
Women are at a greater risk of having kyphosis, particularly during menopause. Age-related kyphosis is often a sign of another underlying issue, such as osteoporosis.
Scheuermann disease is far less common, affecting an estimated 0.4-0.8 percent of people in the United States. This condition is twice as likely to affect young men than women. Scheuermann disease is commonly diagnosed between ages 13 and 16.
The most common kyphosis symptom is pain in the middle or lower back.
Other symptoms may include:
You should seek medical attention for kyphosis symptoms if:
A healthcare provider will look for signs of kyphosis by performing a physical exam and reviewing your medical history. Additional tests may include:
Kyphosis treatment depends on the severity, symptoms, and underlying causes. Treatment options include nonsurgical management and surgical intervention.
Braces can help correct kyphosis or reduce discomfort by guiding proper spinal growth. Braces are typically worn for several hours daily until growth is complete.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may help with pain and inflammation. Osteoporosis medications may be used to prevent further spinal fractures in people with age-related kyphosis.
Physical therapy strengthens back and core muscles to improve posture and spinal alignment. It includes targeted stretching and mobility exercises.
Lifestyle modifications may include:
Surgery is only considered for severe kyphosis cases that cause pain, breathing problems, or neurological issues. Surgical procedures include vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty, which are minimally invasive procedures that involve injecting bone cement into fractured vertebrae. These procedures help restore vertebral height and relieve pain in compression fractures.
Selecting the right kyphosis treatment is based on your age, the severity of your condition, and its impact on your daily life. Nonsurgical approaches often improve mild to moderate kyphosis, and surgery is reserved for severe, debilitating cases.
UPMC spine care experts are experienced at providing kyphosis care using the latest tools and techniques. Our team also provides comprehensive spine care for people diagnosed with osteoporosis to prevent future spine fractures and improve overall health.
By UPMC Editorial Staff. Last reviewed on 2025-05-16.
Chat Keywords List
