Kyphosis
Kyphosis is a medical term that refers to a curvature of the upper spine Some curvature is normal, but kyphosis refers to excessive curvature Kyphosis can occur at any age, but is more common in older women
Age-related kyphosis often develops with osteoporosis, when the spinal cord is weakened and fractures and compression may develop. Other types of kyphosis develop in infants or young adults due to spinal defects
Mild kyphosis causes minor problems, but in severe cases there is severe pain and visual impairment Treatment for kyphosis depends on age, cause, and effects
The vertebral column is made up of vertebrae, like a column made of cylinders Kyphosis develops when the vertebrae that make up the upper part of the spine are curved This deformation may be caused by several reasons:
- osteoporosis In osteoporosis, the bones are thinned and weak, so compression fractures occur on the malleus Osteoporosis is common in the elderly, especially in women, and in people on high-dose corticosteroid therapy.
- Malar disc degeneration Soft, round intervertebral discs reduce friction between the vertebrae As we age, this structure dries up and gets smaller, which worsens the kyphosis
- Scheurmann's disease (Scheurmann's kyphosis) This disease usually begins during the period of transition age during growth spurt The disease is more common in boys The roundness of the back may hinder the growth and development of the child
- Congenital defects If the baby's spine did not develop normally in the womb, the vertebrae may misalign and cause kyphosis.
- Syndromes Kyphosis in children is associated with certain syndromes such as Marfan syndrome or Prader-Willi disease
- Cancer and cancer treatment Spinal cancer weakens the vertebrae and causes compression fractures Chemotherapy and radiation therapy have similar effects
Curvature of the upper spine may simply be caused by the way you walk or sit. This condition is not accompanied by deformities and is common in adolescents
In addition to the incorrect curvature of the spine, kyphosis causes pain and stiffness Mild forms are asymptomatic
When to consult a doctor Schedule a visit to the doctor if you notice an increased curvature of the spine in your head or in your child.
