When someone has arthritis or there are symptoms of this condition, they usually take prompt measures, be it finding the best osteoarthritis surgeon doctor or consulting specialists like the best osteoporosis surgeon.
Unfortunately, this proactive approach goes missing when it comes to back pain. Even though millions of people worldwide continue to struggle with back pain largely thanks to the remote working model, very few of them seek the needed help from an orthopedic doctor. Owing to this, the early symptoms of back pain, which could otherwise be easily treated, worsen, eventually becoming more severe like kyphosis.
What is kyphosis?
Kyphosis is a medical condition characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine. It is often referred to as hunchback or round-back.
Clinically, kyphosis is described as a spinal deformity that produces an increased convexity of the thoracic spine, which leads to a posterior displacement of the head and shoulders. This can be accompanied by a loss of normal lordotic curve across the lumbar spine. Kyphosis can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired later in life due to trauma, such as fractures or osteoporosis.
Kyphosis can lead to a number of complications including muscle weakness or atrophy and respiratory problems.
Kyphosis causes
There are three types of kyphosis: postural, Scheuermann’s, and congenital. Postural kyphosis is caused by poor posture, which can be corrected with good posture and exercise. Scheuermann’s kyphosis occurs in children and is often hereditary. Congenital kyphosis is a deformity of the spine that occurs at birth. Treatment of these forms of kyphosis depends upon their severity and the underlying cause.
In general, if you have kyphosis, it may be an acquired condition caused by aging, poor posture or injury. Sometimes it’s hereditary and is present at birth. The most common causes of kyphosis are old age and osteoporosis (loss of bone mass). Osteoporosis causes bones to become brittle and fragile.
Kyphosis treatment
Treatment largely depends on how severe the condition is, how quickly it progresses, and whether it affects other parts of the body. The goal of treatment is to relieve pain and improve movement and function. Treatment is generally intended to relieve symptoms and prevent further complications.
Mild cases can be treated with physical therapy, exercise, and pain relievers. Your doctor may recommend losing extra weight depending on your case. Surgery may be needed for advanced cases. In severe cases where surgery is not an option, a brace may help support the spine when doing physical activities that cause pain and discomfort.
Final Words
There can be many causes of kyphosis. Coping with this condition involves a combination of conservative and alternative treatments that may include medication, exercise, physical therapy, and surgery if necessary. Combine these alternative and conventional treatment approaches with the self-care techniques as outlined by your doctor for faster, complication recovery.