Kyphosis is excessive forward rounding of the upper back, defined as a thoracic Cobb angle >40° (normal: 20–40°).
Key Statistics
- Adolescent (Scheuermann's) kyphosis: affects ~0.4–10% of adolescents; slightly more common in males
- Adult / postural kyphosis: prevalence rises sharply with age — present in up to 40% of adults over 60
- Strongly associated with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures
- Severe kyphosis (>70°) is associated with reduced pulmonary function and increased mortality in the elderly
Symptoms
- Visibly rounded upper back ("hunchback")
- Back pain, especially with prolonged standing
- Muscle fatigue
- Difficulty looking straight ahead
- In severe cases: shortness of breath, GI reflux, neurologic symptoms
Treatment
- Physical therapy for postural kyphosis
- Bracing (Milwaukee brace) for growing adolescents with Scheuermann's
- Osteoporosis management to prevent further fractures
- Posterior spinal fusion with osteotomies for rigid curves >70–75° or progressive neurologic compromise
Common Symptoms
- Hunched upper back
- Back pain
- Muscle stiffness
- Fatigue
- Difficulty looking ahead
- Shortness of breath (severe)
Treatment Options
Physical therapy
Bracing
Osteoporosis management
Posterior fusion with osteotomy
Dr. Jerry Walters II
Board-Certified Neurosurgeon
Providing expert kyphosis treatment at Nova Brain and Spine of GA in Hampton, Georgia. Serving patients throughout Southern Georgia and the Atlanta metro area.