Kyphosis, commonly known as “Dowager’s Hump”, is a pronounced forward bend of the upper spine. This condition has been observed in both the elderly and children, though it’s more prevalent in post-menopausal women due to the reduction in bone density from osteoporosis. This bend results in what was historically called the “dowager’s hump”, a distinct curvature in the spine that can make mobility challenging and increase the risk of falls and fractures.
The condition can be so severe in some cases that multiple bone breaks in the affected person’s backbone lead to the spine’s collapse. This results in the formation of a noticeable hump, which is sometimes termed a “dowager’s hump”. Moreover, the hump can cause difficulty in finding clothes that fit well or look appealing, and the protruding abdomen resulting from the kyphosis is an often unrecognized aspect of osteoporosis.
One of the most common causes of this condition is vertebral compression fractures. When the bone collapses on the front side, the closest part to the chest, and as collapsed vertebrae stack up, the spine becomes more rounded, leaning forward. This condition has been more commonly observed in elderly women than in men, and in children, an abnormal rounding of the back is more common in girls than boys. A typical spine, when observed from behind, appears straight with a curve ranging from 20° to 45° in the upper back. However, with kyphosis, this curve can exceed 50°.
Prevention and management of this condition have become paramount. According to Kelyssa Hall, CSCS, CEAS, an exercise physiologist at HSS, specific exercises, including “chin tucks”, can play a significant role in preventing and alleviating the symptoms of Dowager’s Hump. Furthermore, diets, resistance exercise, and bone-building drugs have been found to aid in the prevention of this condition. For more severe cases, minimally invasive surgery can be considered to strengthen the affected areas.
Learn more about exercises to improve Dowager’s Hump and the various types of kyphosis in both children and adults. It’s never too late to work on preserving your posture and ensuring that you lead a life without the challenges that come with kyphosis.
