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In kyphosis
(Scheuermann disease), changes in the cartilages of the vertebrae
(osteochondritis) cause a humpback.
Some amount of kyphosis is common and begins in adolescence, affecting boys more often than girls. The cause is unknown. The vertebrae curve forward on each other, usually in the upper back. As a result, the back develops a hump. Scoliosis also often develops in children with kyphosis (kyphoscoliosis).
Kyphosis often produces no symptoms. Sometimes, mild, persistent back pain develops. Kyphosis may be noticed only because it alters the body's appearance. The shoulders may appear rounded. The upper spine may appear more curved than normal, or a hump may be visible. Mild kyphosis that does not produce symptoms is sometimes detected only during a routine physical examination. A doctor confirms the diagnosis by taking x-rays of the spine, which show the curve and the deformity of the vertebrae.
Treatment most often consists of wearing a spinal brace or sleeping on a rigid bed. In mild kyphosis, the spine may straighten slightly with treatment, although symptoms may not improve. It is unclear whether treating mild kyphosis prevents the curve from worsening. When kyphosis is more severe, treatment may improve symptoms and prevent the curve from worsening. Rarely, despite treatment, kyphosis worsens to such an extent that surgery is needed to straighten the spine.
Last full review/revision February 2003
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