Kyphosis
Alternate Terms:- Roundback
- Hunchback
- Postural Kyphosis
Kyphosis is pronounced rounding of the upper spine that exceeds 45 degrees, causing the person to have a hunched back. In cases of severe kyphosis, which is also called Scheuermann's disease, the curvature can press against the nerve that runs through the spinal column and cause paralysis.
Kyphosis may be present at birth (congenital) or may be caused by injury, infection, or disease. Kyphosis associated with bone thinning (osteoporosis) in older people often is called a dowager's hump.
| Author: | Jeannette Curtis |
| Medical Review: | Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Last Updated: May 25, 2007 | |
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