What is kyphosis?
Kyphosis is a condition where the upper back curves forward more than normal, creating a rounded or hunched appearance. It's sometimes called a "hunchback" or "roundback," and it can affect people of all ages, from children to older adults.
A normal spine has gentle curves that help with balance and movement. But when the upper curve becomes too steep—usually more than 50 degrees—it’s considered kyphosis. For some, the curve is mild and doesn’t cause any problems. For others, it can lead to back pain, stiffness or a noticeable change in posture.
Kyphosis can happen for different reasons. It may be caused by poor posture, injuries, weakened bones from osteoporosis or certain medical conditions. In kids and teens, it can also be related to a growth issue called Scheuermann’s disease.
Treatment depends on what’s causing the curve and how severe it is. Some people may just need physical therapy or exercises to improve posture. Others might need a back brace or surgery.
Types of kyphosis
There are different types of kyphosis, and each one has its own cause and treatment. Some types are more common in children and teenagers, while others usually appear later in life. Knowing which type you have can help guide the right care.
Postural kyphosis
This is the most common type and is usually caused by poor posture or slouching. It often shows up during the teenage years and is more common in girls than boys. The spine itself is still normal, and the curve usually improves with better posture, stretching and strengthening exercises.
Scheuermann’s kyphosis
This type happens when the bones in the spine grow unevenly during childhood. The front of the bones become wedge-shaped, which causes a more noticeable curve. It’s a structural issue and tends to be more rigid than postural kyphosis. It often shows up in teens and may need physical therapy, a back brace or sometimes surgery.
Congenital kyphosis
This type is present at birth. It happens when the bones in a baby’s spine don’t form the right way or are fused together. Congenital kyphosis can get worse as the child grows and usually needs to be watched closely by a specialist. In some cases, surgery may be needed early on.
Cervical kyphosis
This type affects the neck. Instead of curving slightly backward like it should, the neck curves forward or becomes too straight. This can cause a stiff, upright posture, sometimes called “military neck.” It may lead to neck pain, limited movement or nerve problems in more serious cases.
Hyperkyphosis
Hyperkyphosis means the curve in the spine is more severe than normal. It usually shows up in adults over 40 and is often linked to osteoporosis or spine fractures. As bones weaken or collapse, the curve can become more noticeable and may cause back pain, stiffness or trouble standing up straight.
Kyphosis symptoms
Kyphosis symptoms can range from mild to more serious, depending on how much the spine is curved and what causes it. Some people may not notice any symptoms at first, especially if the curve develops slowly over time.
Common signs of kyphosis include:
- A rounded or hunched upper back
- Head that leans forward or sits lower than the shoulders
- Back pain or stiffness, especially in the upper or mid-back
- Fatigue after standing or sitting for long periods
- Tightness in the back or hamstrings
- In more severe cases, trouble breathing or nerve problems
When to see a doctor
You should see your doctor if noticeable changes in your or your child’s spine concern you. Sometimes, children and teenagers are referred to a doctor for kyphosis after a scoliosis screening at school. The sooner you or your child gets a diagnosis, the earlier you can start treatment.
Kyphosis causes
Kyphosis can have different causes depending on your age, overall health and how the spine is affected. Some cases are related to posture, while others are caused by changes in the bones of the spine.
Common causes include:
- Poor posture: Slouching over time, especially in teens, can lead to postural kyphosis.
- Spinal development issues: Conditions like Scheuermann’s disease cause the bones in the spine to grow unevenly, leading to a curved back.
- Congenital defects: Some babies are born with spine bones that didn’t form properly, which can cause kyphosis as they grow.
- Osteoporosis: This bone-thinning condition can lead to weak or fractured vertebrae, especially in older adults.
- Spinal injuries: Trauma or fractures in the spine can lead to a more severe forward curve.
- Degenerative diseases: Conditions like arthritis can break down the spine over time and lead to kyphosis.
Kyphosis risk factors
Your risk of getting kyphosis depends on your age and family history. Hyperkyphosis becomes more likely as you get older, while postural and Scheuermann’s kyphosis are more common in teenagers. Congenital kyphosis develops before birth.
Scheuermann’s and congenital kyphosis are structural problems without a clear cause. However, you’re more likely to get postural or hyperkyphosis if you have any of the following:
- Connective tissue disorders: Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and similar disorders affect the connective tissue supporting your bones.
- Family history: Studies suggest some forms of kyphosis are partly caused by your genes.
- Poor posture: Slouching can stretch the muscles and ligaments of the spine in children and adults. Physical inactivity and sitting for long periods can worsen your posture.
- Sex: Females are more likely to have postural kyphosis, while Scheuermann’s kyphosis affects twice as many boys as girls.
Complications
If kyphosis becomes more severe or isn’t treated, it can lead to other health problems over time. Possible complications include:
- Chronic back pain: A more pronounced curve can lead to long-term pain or discomfort
- Breathing problems: In severe cases, the curve can press on the lungs and make it harder to breathe
- Limited movement: Stiffness in the spine can affect posture, flexibility and daily activities
- Nerve issues: In rare cases, the curve can pinch nerves, causing numbness or weakness in the arms or legs
- Changes in appearance: A noticeable hunch or rounded back may affect confidence and self-esteem
Most people with kyphosis don’t develop serious complications, especially with early care. If you notice changes in posture, pain or other symptoms, talk with your doctor to help prevent long-term problems.
How is kyphosis diagnosed
If you or your child shows signs of kyphosis, your doctor will start with a thorough evaluation to understand the cause and severity of the curve. Diagnosing kyphosis involves several steps, including a medical history, physical exam and imaging tests. This helps your healthcare provider choose the best treatment plan for you.
Medical history and exam
During your initial visit, your doctor will perform a physical exam and want to know if you’re having symptoms, such as back pain, fatigue, chest pain or neurological problems related to a curve. If you have pain, they may want to know if it gets worse when you move.
For the physical exam, your doctor will look for an abnormal curve of your spine. They might press your spine to see if surrounding muscles feel sore or tender. They may also ask you to bend forward or lie down. In postural kyphosis, the curve often disappears when you lie down.
They might also look for any changes in your nervous system and test your reflexes.
Imaging tests
To get a detailed view of your spine, your doctor will often order imaging tests.
- X-ray: This is the most common test used to look at kyphosis. Spine X-rays show the shape and angle of the curve, which doctors measure using something called the Cobb angle. X-rays can also reveal if any bones are fused together or if discs between the vertebrae are worn down.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan: An MRI may be ordered if you have symptoms like numbness, weakness, or if your doctor suspects an infection or tumor. MRI uses magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the spine, nerves and soft tissues.
- Computed tomography (CT) scan: A CT scan gives detailed cross-sectional pictures of your spine. It can provide more information about the bones than an X-ray and is useful when your doctor needs a clearer view of complex spine problems or injuries.
Bone density test
A bone density test, also called a DEXA scan, is used to measure how strong and dense your bones are. This is especially important if you’re at risk for osteoporosis—a condition that weakens bones and makes them more likely to break. When bones in the spine become weak, they can collapse or fracture, which may cause or worsen kyphosis.
The test is quick, painless and noninvasive. During the scan, you lie on a table while a special machine measures bone density, usually in your lower spine and hips. Knowing your bone health helps your doctor decide if treatments like medication, diet changes or lifestyle adjustments are needed to protect your spine and prevent further curving.
Nerve tests
Sometimes, kyphosis can press on the nerves running through your spine, leading to symptoms like numbness, tingling, weakness or pain in your arms or legs. To understand if the nerves are affected, your doctor may order nerve tests.
Two common nerve tests are:
- Electromyography (EMG): This test checks the health of your muscles and the nerves controlling them. Small, thin needles are gently inserted into certain muscles to measure electrical activity when you contract or relax those muscles.
- Nerve conduction studies: This test measures how quickly electrical signals travel through your nerves. Electrodes are placed on your skin and mild electrical pulses are sent through the nerves to see if there’s any delay or blockage.
Both tests help your doctor find out if kyphosis is causing nerve irritation or damage. The results guide treatment decisions and help prevent further nerve problems.
Kyphosis treatment
Treatment for kyphosis depends on the type, cause and how severe the curve is. Many people with mild kyphosis manage their symptoms well with simple steps like exercise and posture correction. For more serious cases, additional treatments may be needed to reduce pain, improve posture and prevent the curve from getting worse.
Medication
Medicine can help relieve symptoms of kyphosis, especially if you're dealing with discomfort, inflammation or an underlying condition like osteoporosis. Treatment often includes one or both of the following:
- Pain medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen are commonly used to reduce pain and inflammation. Acetaminophen may also help if inflammation isn’t a major issue. For more severe or ongoing pain, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications for short-term use to help you stay comfortable and active.
- Medications for underlying conditions: If your kyphosis is caused or worsened by another health issue—like osteoporosis or arthritis—your doctor may recommend medications to treat that condition. For example, osteoporosis medications can help strengthen bones and reduce the risk of spine fractures. In some cases, anti-inflammatory or infection-fighting medications may also be needed.
Physical therapy and bracing
Physical therapy is often a key part of kyphosis treatment. A therapist can teach you exercises to:
- Strengthen the muscles in your back and core to support better posture
- Stretch tight muscles, especially in the chest and hamstrings, to improve flexibility
- Improve balance and reduce fatigue during daily activities
For some types of kyphosis, especially in children and teens, wearing a back brace can help slow or stop the curve from worsening. Bracing is usually recommended when the curve is moderate and the bones are still growing. The brace is custom-fitted and worn for several hours a day, often during activities or at night.
Exercises combined with bracing can improve posture and reduce the need for surgery in many cases.
Surgery
Surgery is usually considered only when kyphosis causes severe pain, neurological problems or a very large curve that affects breathing or quality of life. The goal of surgery is to straighten and stabilize the spine.
Common surgical options include:
- Spinal fusion: The most common surgery for kyphosis, this procedure surgically joins together two or more vertebrae in your spine to reduce the degree of a curve. Your surgeon uses a bone graft or artificial material to fuse the bones.
- Kyphoplasty: Your surgeon inserts a small device called a balloon tamp between your vertebrae, creating space between the bones. After removing the balloon, they fill the space with cement that strengthens your spine.
- Vertebroplasty: An alternative to kyphoplasty, this is a minimally invasive procedure where your surgeon injects bone cement into the bones in your spine. This acts as glue to stabilize your spine and can correct a curve and reduce pain.
- Spinal osteotomy: This term refers to various procedures to correct spinal deformity in children and adults. These can include removing parts of the bones and ligaments in the spine to straighten a curve.
Find care for kyphosis
At Baylor Scott & White, we have multiple locations across North and Central Texas to provide you with access to expert care. Our specialized centers include neurology and back and neck care, all designed to meet the unique needs of people who have been diagnosed with kyphosis. Whether you're seeking diagnostic testing, treatment options or ongoing support, our teams are here to help you.
AccentCare - Fort Worth
3880 Hulen St , Fort Worth, TX, 76107
Baylor Scott & White Advanced Heart Care - Idabel, OK
4 SE Avenue A , Idabel, OK, 74745
Baylor Scott & White Advanced Heart Care - Mt Pleasant (Satellite)
1011 N Jefferson Ave , Mt Pleasant, TX, 75455
Baylor Scott & White Advanced Heart Care - Paris
875 S Collegiate Dr , Paris, TX, 75462
Baylor Scott & White Cardiac Surgery - Longview
906 Judson Rd , Longview, TX, 75601
Baylor Scott & White Advanced Heart Failure Clinic - Longview
906 Judson Rd , Longview, TX, 75601
Baylor Scott & White Liver Consultants of Texas - Longview
906 Judson Rd , Longview, TX, 75601
- Monday: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
- Tuesday: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
- Wednesday: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
- Thursday: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
- Friday: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
Baylor Scott & White Advanced Heart Care - Sulphur Springs
601 Airport Rd Ste 110, Sulphur Springs, TX, 75482
Baylor Scott & White North Texas Colon and Rectal Associates - Sulphur Springs
601 Airport Rd Ste 110, Sulphur Springs, TX, 75482
Baylor Scott & White Advanced Heart Failure Clinic - Tyler
1321 S Beckham Ave , Tyler, TX, 75701
Baylor Scott & White Center for Advanced Surgery - Tyler
1321 S Beckham Ave , Tyler, TX, 75701
Baylor Scott & White Center for Thoracic Surgery - Tyler
1321 S Beckham Ave , Tyler, TX, 75702
Baylor Scott & White Liver Consultants of Texas - Tyler
1321 S Beckham Ave , Tyler, TX, 75701
Baylor Scott & White North Texas Colon and Rectal Associates - Tyler
1321 S Beckham Ave , Tyler, TX, 75701
Baylor Scott & White Cardiac Surgery - Tyler
1321 S Beckham Ave , Tyler, TX, 75701
Touchstone Imaging Tyler
2019 Old Troup Hwy , Tyler, TX, 75701
Baylor Scott & White Texas Spine & Joint Hospital
1814 Roseland Blvd Ste 100, Tyler, TX, 75701
Glen Oaks Hospital
301 Division St , Greenville, TX, 75401
Baylor Scott & White Surgical Hospital - Sherman
3601 N Calais St , Sherman, TX, 75090
Baylor Scott & White Urgent Care+ Sherman
4028 N Hwy 75 , Sherman, TX, 75090
- Monday: 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
- Tuesday: 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
- Wednesday: 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
- Thursday: 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
- Saturday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Sunday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Texas Spine & Joint Hospital Urgent Care - Tyler
8101 S Broadway Ave , Tyler, TX, 75703
- Monday: 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
- Tuesday: 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
- Wednesday: 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
- Thursday: 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
- Saturday: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Cardiology Consultants of Texas - Greenville
4400 Interstate 30 W Ste 300, Greenville, TX, 75402
- Monday: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Primary Care Associates - Greenville
4400 Interstate 30 W Ste 100, Greenville, TX, 75402
- Monday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Primary Care Associates Pediatrics - Greenville
4400 Interstate 30 W Ste 110, Greenville, TX, 75402
- Monday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Gastroenterology - Greenville
4400 Interstate 30 W Ste 300, Greenville, TX, 75402
Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic Associates of Dallas - Greenville
4400 Interstate 30 W Ste 300, Greenville, TX, 75402
Baylor Scott & White Imaging Center - Greenville
4400 Interstate 30 W Ste 200, Greenville, TX, 75402
- Monday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Outpatient Rehabilitation - Greenville
4400 Interstate 30 W Ste 120, Greenville, TX, 75402
- Monday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Endoscopy Center - Sherman
1615 US-75 Ste B, Sherman, TX, 75090
Sherman Endoscopy Center
1615 N Hwy 75 , Sherman, TX, 75090
Baylor Scott & White Women's Care & Continence Center - Sherman
260 E Evergreen St , Sherman, TX, 75090
- Monday: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Advanced Heart Care - Sherman Sycamore (Satellite)
203 E Sycamore St , Sherman, TX, 75090
Baylor Scott & White The Heart Group - Sherman
230 E Sycamore St Ste 205, Sherman, TX, 75090
Baylor Scott & White Arrhythmia Management - Sherman
230 E Sycamore St Ste 205, Sherman, TX, 75090
Baylor Scott & White Advanced Heart Care – Sherman Highland (Satellite)
300 N Highland Ave , Sherman, TX, 75092
Baylor Scott & White Digestive Diseases Group - Sherman
204 Medical Dr Ste 240, Sherman, TX, 75092
Baylor Scott & White Primary Care - Van Alstyne
250 N Collin McKinney Pkwy , Van Alstyne, TX, 75495
- Monday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Institute for Rehabilitation - Anna
601 S. Ferguson Pkwy Ste 100, Anna, TX, 75409
Baylor Scott & White Institute for Rehabilitation - Royse City
594 W Interstate 30 , Royse City, TX, 75189
- Monday: 7:00 am - 7:00 pm
- Tuesday: 7:00 am - 7:00 pm
- Wednesday: 7:00 am - 7:00 pm
- Thursday: 7:00 am - 7:00 pm
- Friday: 7:00 am - 7:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Advanced Heart Care - Anna
450 N Standridge Blvd , Anna, TX, 75409
Baylor Scott & White Digestive Diseases Group - Anna
450 N Standridge Blvd Ste 104, Anna, TX, 75409
Baylor Scott & White Texas Cardiac Associates - Royse City
6257 FM 2642 Blvd Ste 100, Royse City, TX, 75189
Baylor Scott & White Primary Care Associates - Royse City
6257 FM 2642 Blvd Ste 100, Royse City, TX, 75189
- Monday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Surgical Institute - Royse City
6257 FM 2642 Blvd Ste 100, Royse City, TX, 75189
- Monday: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Institute for Rehabilitation - McKinney Red Bud
1705 W University Dr Ste 119, McKinney, TX, 75069
Baylor Scott & White Institute For Rehabilitation - McKinney Lake Forest
1705 W University Dr Ste 119, McKinney, TX, 75069
Baylor Scott & White Institute For Rehabilitation - McKinney University
1705 W University Dr Ste 119, McKinney, TX, 75069
Heritage Eye Center
1501 Redbud Blvd , McKinney, TX, 75069
Baylor Scott & White The Heart Hospital - McKinney
5268 W University Dr , McKinney, TX, 75071
The Laser Surgery Center, LLC
2600 W University Dr Ste 200, McKinney, TX, 75071
Frequently asked questions
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Can kyphosis be prevented?
You can’t prevent all types of kyphosis, but you can reduce your chance of developing postural or hyperkyphosis by maintaining good posture. You can help prevent osteoporosis, a common cause of kyphosis in older adults, by eating foods rich in vitamin D and practicing bone-building exercises.
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Can kyphosis be reversed?
Yes, postural kyphosis can often be improved or even reversed with exercise, physical therapy and better posture. Structural kyphosis is harder to treat but can be managed with bracing, therapy or surgery. Early treatment usually leads to better results.
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Can kyphosis affect breathing?
Yes, severe kyphosis can affect breathing. The forward curve of the spine may compress the lungs, reduce lung capacity and weaken breathing muscles. In more advanced cases, this can cause shortness of breath, fatigue and other complications. Kyphoscoliosis may lead to even more serious breathing problems.
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Is kyphosis genetic?
Yes, some types of kyphosis are genetic, like Scheuermann’s kyphosis and congenital kyphosis. Other causes include poor posture, injury or conditions like osteoporosis or muscular dystrophy. If you have a family history or symptoms, see your doctor for an evaluation.
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Can bad posture cause kyphosis?
yes, bad posture can cause postural kyphosis, which is an excessive curve in the upper back caused by slouching or hunching. This condition is common in teens and young adults. It can often be improved with better posture habits, regular back-strengthening exercises and physical therapy to prevent the curve from worsening.