Kyphosis – What is Kyphosis? | Kyphosis Definition
Kyphosis also called hunchback, is a common condition of a curvature of the upper spine. It can be either the result of degenerative diseases, developmental problems, osteoporosis with compression fractures of the vertebrae, and/or trauma.In the sense of a deformity, it is the pathological curving of the spine, where parts of the spinal column lose some or all of their lordotic profile. This causes a bowing of the back, seen as a slouching back and breathing difficulties. Severe cases can cause great discomfort and even lead to death.
Kyphosis is a term used to describe both a normal spinal condition and several abnormal spinal conditions. All people have some degree of kyphosis, a C curvature in the thoracic spine. In some cases, though, this C curvature is exaggerated, causing problems in posture, affecting range of motion, and often causing pain. In sufferers of abnormal kyphosis, the shoulders are hunched and the face is slightly forward, although in early development of some forms, this posture may not be particularly evident.
Kyphosis is a forward rounding of your upper back. Some rounding is normal, but the term “kyphosis” usually refers to an exaggerated rounding, more than 50 degrees. This deformity is also called round back or hunchback.
With kyphosis, your spine may look normal, or you may develop a hump. Kyphosis can occur as a result of developmental problems; degenerative diseases, such as arthritis of the spine; osteoporosis with compression fractures of the vertebrae; or trauma to the spine. It can affect all ages.
Mild kyphosis may cause few problems. But severe cases can affect your lungs, nerves, and other tissues and organs, causing pain and other problems. Treatment for kyphosis depends on your age, the cause of the curvature and its effects.
This type of kyphosis is the most common and causes a loss of height and interference with breathing.
Technically, the term kyphosis can be used to describe any abnormal curve of the spine that goes in the backwards direction. So, in some instances kyphosis can be used to describe a reversal of the low back curve.
The term kyphosis also refers to the type of curve formed by the sacrum and the thoracic spine. When used this way, kyphosis refers to normal curvature. When looking at a side view of the spine, the direction of a kyphosis will be backwards.
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