If you or someone in your loved ones has an extreme and visible rounded back, then it’s not something you should overlook. Having a slouching body or a humped back is not normal; it is a condition of scoliosis called hyperkyphosis. In this condition, the spinal curve curves outward more than it should, causing the upper back to curve forward. For someone watching, the person with hyperkyphosis might assume the person to be slouchy, but it is something beyond and more serious. If you’re struggling with kyphosis (also called hunchback), please address this as soon as possible.
Our spine has natural curves that enable us to comfortably sit and stand. But when these curves bend more than the natural curve, they don’t just affect your movement but also the entire body posture. However, mild kyphosis doesn’t raise many health concerns, but moderate to severe cases cause difficulty in breathing and increase pain. And at times, in cases where the condition is too severe, the only option left is surgical intervention.
What are the causes of kyphosis?
There are no fixed causes for kyphosis, and it can vary from one person to another, and according to the condition. The common causes include
Poor body posture:
Teenagers who constantly slouch or have weak back muscles often develop the condition of kyphosis. As a teenager or an adult, you must keep a check on your body posture always and avoid slouching while walking or sitting.
Spinal degeneration:
Spinal degeneration is an important cause of kyphosis in older adults. When discs degenerate, they lose height and flatten, and the weakened vertebrae force the spine to bend forward. This condition reduces mobility, increases back pain, and at times even makes it difficult to breathe and digest.
Traumatic Injury:
If the patient has experienced a traumatic injury in the back, then it could be another important reason for kyphosis. When the vertebrae fracture due to a fall, accident, or injury, it affects the functioning of the spinal cord and can lead to the development of conditions like scoliosis or even more complex spinal health problems.
Beyond these, causes like neuromuscular conditions, spinal diseases, infections, and nutritional deficiencies could also be the reason. However, irrespective of the cause, you must get kyphosis treatment from scoliosis specialists. For kyphosis treatment Toronto, you can always connect with us at Scoliosis GTA. Schedule your appointment and get the right treatment started.