Dr. Dowdell explained, “This hump typically affects the area of the spine called the upper thoracic spine. When you have this condition, your head appears to jut forward because the upper thoracic spine has an excessive curvature.”

Dr. Dowdell said the number one cause of the hump is bad posture. “Unfortunately, this becomes a chicken and egg scenario as bad posture places more pressure on the spine, which can cause worsening of the curvature which further reinforces the existing bad posture,” he added.

Lifestyle changes can help supplement a treatment plan. Dr. Dowdell recommended physical activity, a back brace for advanced cases, anti-inflammatory medication if the pain is significant, and treatment of underlying conditions. “This is also important to prevent further worsening–osteoporosis is the major condition that can worsen kyphosis if untreated,” he noted.

Practicing proper posture is also key. Dr. Dowdell explained, “This prevents further stress being placed on your spine, decreasing the likelihood of degeneration and worsening of your hump. For every inch forward your head juts, your spine sees 10 pounds of extra force.”

Read the full article at Parade.com.

Postural kyphosis is the most common type of kyphosis, and it becomes noticeable when adolescents spend too much time slouching or hunched over, but it is not typically painful. According to Dr. Blanco, “We’ve been seeing a lot more postural kyphosis due to the COVID-19 pandemic because children have been forced to sit at computers for six to eight hours a day for remote schooling.”

Another type is Scheuermann’s Kyphosis. Dr. Blanco explained, “Scheuermann’s kyphosis can appear in juveniles and adolescents and is caused by abnormal growth, which is the result of excessive stresses. A person can also progress from postural kyphosis to Scheuermann’s kyphosis.”

And congenital kyphosis, seen at birth, is rare. “Congenital kyphosis can result in severe deformities at any early age,” added Dr. Blanco.

Kyphosis can be diagnosed with a medical evaluation, and a doctor will examine your spine to determine if the cause of your curvature is postural or structural, said Dr. Blanco. During the exam, doctors will look for any other forms of spinal deformity.

“In those with congenital kyphosis, an MRI scan is frequently ordered to evaluate the spinal cord anatomy,” noted Dr. Blanco. “And in growing children, kyphosis needs to be followed.”

Treatment for kyphosis depends on the cause of the disorder and your age. For congenital kyphosis, physical therapy is often used to improve the core body strength, hamstring flexibility, and shoulder mechanics, cited Dr. Blanco.

Read the full article at TheHealthy.com.