Kyphosis is the development of a curve in the upper part of the spine. Because of this, the person appears to be stooped. However unlike stooping is a permanent condition as the shape itself of the spine becomes curved. Because of this the posture of such a person appears does not look good and thus it is a hold back in the personality.
Kyphosis can occur due to development of some abnormality in the spine. However, it can also occur due to wrong posture as well. Nutritional deficiency especially of the vitamin D may be involved with development of Kyphosis. The development of Kyphosis due to wrong posture occurs only when a person maintains a wrong posture for many years. The habit of sitting not a wrong posture can develop from the childhood itself, as the children are tentative to sitting in such a posture.
In some cases apart from being just a hold back to the personality Kyphosis can cause some symptoms as well. However, the occurrence of symptoms depends upon the extent of curvature in the back. The symptoms may include pain in the back pain, which is mild in most of the cases, fatigue, and in some cases, the person feels difficulties, in breathing, as well. Sometimes very serious complications as well may be involved which can cause even death.
When the back appears to be curved, it is advisable that medical help is sought. The doctors will study the symptoms and do radiological tests commonly X-rays. This is important because some complications may be present which have to be diagnosed and cured if required.
The treatment for Kyphosis is done by two methods physical therapy or chiropractic therapy. Physical therapy will involve exercises, which will stress the muscles and bones in the spine. In some cases, exercises are useful in preventing Kyphosis. This is particularly so when wrong posture is the reason for development of Kyphosis. However apart from it in most of the times, it is useful for pain relief.
Some support in the form of body braces as well can be used to support the back for preventing it.
As the spine is a very important part and contains the important nerves, surgery is used only in extreme cases. If the Kyphosis is progressive and causing increased damage to the vertebrae, which may result in vertebral collapse kyphoplasty is used. Such a progression is restricted in treatment. This treatment is complex and involves fusing the abnormal vertebrae. Kyphoplasty also provides pain relief.
