Kyphosis

The medical term kyphosis has several meanings.

• A deformity, where the back is bowed.
• A term describing the normally convex (arched, kyphotic) segments of the spine, also called primary curvatures.
• When related to a single vertebra, describes the angle created between the superior and inferior endplates.

The article deals with kyphosis in the first sense, as a deformity.

Kyphosis in the sense of a deformity is the pathologic curving of the spine, where parts of the spinal column lose some or all of their lordotic profile. This causes a bowing of the back, seen as a slouching posture. Symptoms of kyphosis, that may be present or not, depending on the type and extent of the deformity, include mild back pain, fatigue, appearance of round back and breathing difficulties. If necessary, the deformity is treated with a brace and physical therapy, or corrective surgery. Severe cases can cause much discomfort and even cause death.

There are several kinds of kyphosis:

• postural kyphosis, which is the most common type
• Scheuermann's kyphosis, which is significantly worse cosmetically and can cause pain
• congenital kyphosis

See also

• The Hunchback of Notre Dame.
• Lordosis

External links

• Kyphosis: Description and Diagnosis
• Kyphosis (Curvature of the spine)