Spine Care
Wisconsin Bone & Joint spine care experts offer comprehensive
services to individuals with a wide range of spine, lower back,
upper back and neck issues.
Kyphosis
Spine Specialists At Wisconsin Bone & Joint
The physicians at Wisconsin Bone & Joint utilize cutting-edge technology to assess, diagnose and work with patients to develop innovative treatment plans for a variety of spine and neck conditions and injuries. Our team of physicians are committed to providing you with the best treatment options to alleviate your back and neck pain.
Providing trusted Orthopedic care in the community for over 40+ years
At Wisconsin Bone and Joint, we pride ourselves with providing you highly personalized and comprehensive orthopedic care. Our philosophy of direct physician-to-patient care means your physician will be an intrical part of every stage of your care. This commitment to a dedicated continuum-of-care model has made us one of the most trusted and respected practices in Southeast Wisconsin and greater Milwaukee area.
Kyphosis
What Is Kyphosis?
Some degree of rounded curvature of the spine is normal. The term kyphosis is used to describe the spinal curve that results in an abnormally rounded back.
What Causes Kyphosis?
Kyphosis, also known as roundback or hunchback, is a condition in which the spine in the upper back has an excessive curvature. The upper back, or thoracic region of the spine, is supposed to have a slight natural curve. The spine naturally curves in the neck, upper back, and lower back to help absorb shock and support the weight of the head. Kyphosis occurs when this natural arch is larger than normal.
If you have kyphosis, you may have a visible hump on your upper back. From the side, your upper back may be noticeably rounded or protruding. In addition, people with hunchback appear to be slouching and have noticeable rounding of the shoulders. Kyphosis can lead to excess pressure on the spine, causing pain. It may also cause breathing difficulties due to pressure put on the lungs.
Kyphosis in elderly women is known as dowager’s hump.
What Are The Symptoms of Kyphosis?
The primary symptom of kyphosis is an abnormal forward curve in the upper part of the spine. It causes the upper back to appear hunched over, with the shoulders rounded forward.
In mild cases, the spinal curve is not always noticeable. In other instances, a person may look as if they are bending forwards.
Kyphosis often occurs without any other symptoms. However, other symptoms can include:
- back pain
- stiffness in the upper back
- a rounded back
- tight hamstrings
What Are The Treatment Options For Kyphosis?
Treatment will depend on the reason for the deformity. Most teens with postural kyphosis will do well throughout life. The posture of some patients with postural kyphosis may improve over time. An exercise program may help relieve any associated back pain.
Nonsurgical Treatment
An initial program of conservative treatment that includes exercises and anti-inflammatory medications (for discomfort) is recommended for patients with Scheuermann’s kyphosis.
If the patient is still growing, the doctor may prescribe a brace. The patient typically wears the brace until skeletal maturity is reached.
Surgical Treatment
Surgery may be recommended if the kyphotic curve exceeds 75°. The goals of surgery are:
- To reduce the degree of curvature by straightening and fusing the abnormal spinal segments together
- To maintain the improvement over time
- To alleviate significant back discomfort, if present preoperatively.
Our team is here for you
When conservative care and treatment is appropriate, we offer the best, least invasive, least aggressive treatment options to relieve your pain and discomfort. When an injury is more serious and conservative care is not an option, our orthopedic surgeons provide the latest in innovative surgical interventions available with the goal of getting you back to the life you love. Wisconsin Bone & Joint physicians offer orthopedic services at three convenient locations in Mayfair, Glendale and Cedarburg.