Kyphosis (Scheuermann's Disease)
Sutter Spine Services
Kyphosis ( Scheuermann's disease) is an excessive forward curve of the thoracic spine (see spine image) that can cause rounded shoulders, hunched back or a hump on either side of the back. Though a certain amount of curve is normal, an exaggerated curve causes pain and other complications. Kyphosis can occur at any age , resulting from various causes including:
- Degenerative diseases ( osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, spondylolisthesis, Paget's disease of bone and degenerative disc disease)
- Infection (such as discitis)
- Congenital and developmental disorders
- Thyroid hormone disorders
- or in association with scoliosis)
- Injury
- Tumors
Because effective kyphosis treatment depends on the particular cause and extent of the curvature, testing is the first step. Tests include a physical exam and medical history along with a spinal X-ray. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the spine may also help physicians determine possible causes.
Sutter spine surgeons offer children and adults a unique advantage in treating kyphosis through an experienced surgical team, as well as nonsurgical treatments that can include spinal bracing, physical therapy, and exercise. Children receive care through the combined efforts of Sutter Neuroscience Institute and Sutter Children's Services with a family-centered approach that ensures each child receives compassionate care tailored to the child's age.
View an illustration of kyphosis.
More information on kyphosis is available through the following government and nonprofit organizations:
- Kyphosis (articles in Medline Plus Health Encyclopedia, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health )
- National Scoliosis Foundation
- Scoliosis Association
For more information on bone and joint conditions, select one of the following:
For more information on deformity conditions, select one of the following:
