Kyphosis: Understanding the Condition

Excessive posterior curvature of the thoracic spine, often appearing as a "humpback" or "hunchback".

Commonly found in the thoracic or thoracolumbar spine, but can also occur in the cervical area.

Kyphosis can be hyperkyphosis (increased curve) or gibbus (sharp angular curve).

Kyphosis primarily affects the posterior thoracic portion of the spine.

It is a progressive spinal disorder.

Management of kyphosis involves physical therapy, posture correction, and surgery for severe cases.

Surgery is needed for progressive deformity (e.g., over 70 degrees in Scheuermann's kyphosis), significant imbalance, or uncontrolled pain.

Surgical devices like rods, bars, and screws are used to hold the spine straight during and after surgery for structural stability.

A major angle threshold of 70 degrees for the severity of spinal curvature warrants surgical intervention.

Initial treatment to alleviate kyphosis pain, often utilizing non-surgical strategies.