Understanding Kyphosis: Symptoms and Treatment Options

August 16,2024 by DR. ARASH P. EMAMI

Kyphosis, characterized by an excessive outward curve of the spine, can lead to discomfort and affect posture. Understanding its symptoms and treatment options is crucial for effective management.

Recognizing Kyphosis

Kyphosis can be caused by various factors, including poor posture, spinal injuries, and degenerative diseases. Common symptoms include:

• Visible curvature of the upper back
• Back pain and stiffness
• Fatigue
• Difficulty breathing in severe cases

Treatment Options

1.     Non-Surgical Treatments

• Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen back muscles and improve posture can alleviate
• Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications can help manage discomfort.
• Bracing: In children and adolescents, wearing a brace can help correct the curvature as they

2.     Lifestyle Changes

• Ergonomics: Ensuring proper ergonomics at work and home can prevent worsening of the
• Exercise: Regular low-impact exercises like swimming and walking can help maintain spinal
• Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on the spine.

3.     Alternative Therapies

• Chiropractic Care: Spinal adjustments to relieve pain and improve
• Acupuncture: Pain relief through stimulation of specific points on the
• Yoga and Pilates: Improve strength, flexibility, and overall spinal

4.     Surgical Treatments

• Microdiscectomy: Treatment for sciatica that involves removing disc material to relieve nerve pressure.
• Laminectomy: Removing part of the vertebra to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves without fusion.
• Artificial Discs: Replacing damaged discs with artificial ones to maintain
• Percutaneous Endoscopic Discectomy: A minimally invasive procedure to remove disc

The main advantages over conventional spinal fusion include:

• Faster recovery times after surgery
• More spinal mobility after surgery
• Reduced stress on adjacent discs
• No need to harvest bones for a bone graft

University Spine Center’s Approach

University Spine Center offers comprehensive care for kyphosis, from diagnosis to treatment. Our multidisciplinary team tailors treatment plans to each patient’s needs, combining physical therapy, pain management, and advanced surgical options when necessary. We focus on patient education and empowerment, ensuring you have the knowledge and tools to manage your condition effectively.

Conclusion

Kyphosis can significantly impact quality of life, but with the right treatment approach, symptoms can be managed effectively. University Spine Center is dedicated to providing personalized care to help patients achieve better spinal health and improved quality of life.