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CONDITIONS

Kyphosis

Kyphosis is a condition characterized by an excessive curvature of the upper spine, resulting in a hunched or rounded back. There are various causes of kyphosis, including scoliosis, Scheuermann’s Kyphosis, degenerative conditions, and failed spine surgery. Some patients with kyphosis experience pain and discomfort, while others may not have any symptoms at all. While kyphosis can be a challenging condition to deal with, many patients can find relief and improve their quality of life with appropriate treatment.

Symptoms & Diagnosis

Kyphosis is often characterized by an obvious rounding or hump in the upper back, often noticeable when standing. In its early stages, the curve may not yet be noticeable, but other symptoms in the body may indicate the condition. These include:

  • Back pain Discomfort or pain in the upper back
  • Stiffness Reduced flexibility and stiffness in the spine
  • Fatigue Muscle fatigue and discomfort, especially after prolonged periods of sitting or standing
  • Changes in posture Difficulty standing upright
  • Compression of organs Severe cases may lead to compression of internal organs, resulting in breathing difficulties, bladder issues, digestive problems, and other complications.

Kyphosis diagnosis usually requires an x-ray of the spine, which also serves as a monitoring tool for tracking the curve’s progression as the patient grows. Regular x-ray check-ups, typically every 6-12 months, are crucial to closely monitor the curve and prevent it from worsening over time.

Treatments

Treatment of kyphosis is based on the symptoms and severity of the condition. For patients experiencing no or very mild symptoms, initial treatment may solely be for monitoring curve progression. If the curvature or other symptoms increase, conservative treatment or surgical intervention may be necessary.

Conservative treatment
  • Medication Anti-inflammatories or muscle relaxers can be used to manage symptoms.
  • Physical therapy Tailored exercises focused on the upper back and core muscles can improve function and flexibility.
  • Pain management Techniques like epidural steroid injections, facet joint injections, and ablations can alleviate pain and inflammation associated with kyphosis.
Surgical intervention
  • Osteotomy This procedure is done to correct kyphosis by strategically cutting and repositioning the bones in the spine. This intervention aims to restore a more appropriate curvature and relieve the associated symptoms of kyphosis. This is followed by a fusion to maintain the restored alignment.
  • Spinal fusion To stabilize the spine, and prevent excessive curvature, vertebrae are fused together. Dr. Avramis may recommend this procedure for certain cases of kyphosis, particularly when the amount of kyphosis is severe or progressive. The fusion aims to improve the forward rounding of the upper back, providing long-term stability and improving overall spine alignment.
Navigating kyphosis requires a tailored approach to treatment based on the severity of symptoms. With appropriate and timely treatment, many patients of Dr. Avramis with kyphosis find relief and experience an improvement in their quality of life. It’s essential to consult with a qualified spine specialist to determine the most suitable treatment plan to ensure optimal outcomes in managing kyphosis and enhancing spinal health.
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Our team at Avramis Spine & Scoliosis is here to help. To request an appointment or for any other inquiries, please fill out the form.

GET IN TOUCH

Contact

Our team at Avramis Spine & Scoliosis is here to help. To request an appointment or for any other inquiries, please fill out the form.