Living with Kyphosis
Suffering from kyphosis can be debilitating and impact daily living in ways that can be unimaginable. If you have kyphosis, we are sure you are far too familiar with the impacts we refer to. However, it all depends on the severity of your condition.
Severe kyphosis is undeniable, as the discomfort one experiences is unbearable. On the other hand, mild kyphosis can go undetected for quite some time, and it is usually only diagnosed by a physical examination or screening.
What is Kyphosis?
Kyphosis is a spinal condition that results in an abnormal curvature, producing an excessive outward curvature of the spine, leading to a rounded or humpbacked appearance and rotational deformity of the spine. This exaggerated curvature is presented in the thoracic or upper back. Typically, kyphosis changes the orientation and configuration of the spinal processes and facet joints.
symptoms of Kyphosis
Kyphosis symptoms can vary from mild discomfort to limited physical abilities depending on the severity of the curvature in the spinal structure. Symptoms may include but are not limited to:
- Chronic neck or back pain
- Limited spinal mobility
- Visible forward curve of the upper back
- Postural deformities like a prominent hump and rounded shoulders
- Twisted vertebrae, causing the ribs on one side to stick out more prominently than the other side
- Muscle imbalance, weakness, or fatigue
- Irritation of the spinal nerves, causing numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs
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(631) 735-5050types of Kyphosis
Various factors can cause kyphosis, and the exact cause remains unknown in many cases. It is important to have your condition assessed by a medical professional experienced in treating kyphosis, like Dr. Stacy Aslan, DC, so your type of kyphosis can be corrected effectively. The most common types of kyphosis are:
Degenerative Kyphosis or Adult-Onset Kyphosis: Many degenerative diseases can plague us as we age. When a degenerative disease in the spine takes hold, such as osteoporosis, it can result in this type of kyphosis.
Postural Kyphosis: This is the most common type and is often related to poor posture. It typically occurs in adolescence and is reversible with proper posture and bracing.
Scheuermann's Kyphosis: This type usually begins during the growth spurt of adolescence. It is characterized by wedging of the vertebrae, leading to an increased forward curvature of the spine.
Congenital Kyphosis: This type of kyphosis is present at birth and is described as a bone abnormality resulting from improper vertebrae formation during fetal development.
What happens if Kyphosis is left untreated?
Living with kyphosis can tremendously impact your life, from your emotional state to your ability to perform mundane tasks. Kyphosis is one condition that should be actively managed, or it may worsen if left untreated. When left untreated, the following can occur:
- Chronic Pain and Discomfort
- Progression of Curvature
- Deformity
- Emotional Distress
- Fatigue and Sleep Disturbances
- Decreased Quality of Life
- Breathing Difficulties
- Cardiovascular Issues
- Mobility Limitations
- Increased Risk of Injury
- Numbness, Tingling, and, in rare cases, Paralysis
It's vital to address kyphosis promptly to prevent potential issues. Begin proper care for your kyphosis by scheduling an appointment today.
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*Disclaimer: Results are not guaranteed and may vary from person to person.