Understanding Kyphosis: What Is It and How Is It Treated?

Kyphosis: A Deep Dive

Kyphosis refers to a forward curvature of the spine that becomes noticeable when viewing the individual from the side. Everyone has a certain amount of kyphosis in their thoracic spine, which is natural. However, when this curvature becomes excessive, it can lead to both cosmetic and functional complications.

What Causes Kyphosis?

The optimal treatment for kyphosis largely depends on its cause and severity. While surgery remains a viable option, it’s considered a major undertaking since kyphosis typically occurs over numerous vertebral levels. Therefore, for many patients, nonoperative treatments are often recommended before even considering surgical interventions.

Nonoperative Treatments

The primary objectives of treating kyphosis without surgery are curve correction, stabilization of the spine, pain relief, and enhancing neurologic function. Some nonoperative measures include:

Pain Medications: To alleviate the discomfort associated with kyphosis.
Physical Therapy: Often recommended to improve posture, strengthen back muscles, and enhance mobility.
Bracing: Certain braces can help in supporting the spine and correcting the curvature, especially in younger individuals.

However, it’s essential to note that the above treatments might not be suitable for kyphosis patients suffering from osteoporosis.

Surgical Intervention

Dr. Bernard A. Rawlins, MD, an attending orthopedic surgeon at HSS Spine, has identified two categories of patients with post-traumatic kyphosis:

Those who need immediate care post-trauma.
Those who seek medical attention after the spine has healed but in an aberrant alignment.

For children, the best course of treatment is typically decided based on the curve’s degree, the child’s age and growth stage, and if the curve is progressively worsening.

Final Thoughts

Kyphosis, while a common spinal condition, requires a tailored approach to treatment. Balancing the risks associated with surgery and the patient’s disability is crucial. For more in-depth information on kyphosis and its treatments, refer to these resources: Columbia Neurosurgery, UVA Health, and CHOP.