The spine has natural curves at different places. It has an inward curve at the neck and the lower back. This curve is called lordosis. Similarly, the spine curves outward at the middle of the back (the region called the thoracic spine) and at the pelvis. This outward curve is called kyphosis. When the outward curve in the thoracic spine becomes too rounded (more than 45 degrees), the condition is called hyperkyphosis (or just kyphosis). People with kyphosis develop a hunch or a hump. There are three main categories of kyphosis: postural, congenital, and structural.
Postural Kyphosis
Postural kyphosis, also called "round back", is caused by a poor posture. People who slouch too much or have poor posture during their formative years are more likely to develop a round, smooth hump at the back. In most cases, the spine compensates for the kyphosis by increasing the inward curve (hyperlordosis) of the lower back. Help correct postural kyphosis by doing some back strengthening exercises and improving posture.
Congenital Kyphosis
There are two types of structural kyphosis: primary and secondary. Congenital kyphosis is a type of primary structural kyphosis. The term congenital kyphosis is used to define the kyphosis caused by birth defects in the spine. A number of vertebrae fuse together and cause excessive curving of the spine. Since the spine and major organs (like heart and kidneys) develop at the same time, people with congenital kyphosis may also suffer from kidney and heart problems.
Scheuermann's Kyphosis
Scheuermann's kyphosis, also called juvenile kyphosis, is another type of primary kyphosis. It generally affects young people (between 10 and 15 years of age). The vertebrae are supposed to be rectangular in shape. Scheuermann's kyphosis occurs when the front and back of the vertebrae develop at different rates, which causes them to become wedge-shaped. A person is diagnosed with Scheuermann's kyphosis when the spine curves more than 50 degrees, and the vertebrae are herniated.
Secondary Structural Kyphosis
Secondary structural kyphosis is caused by some other medical condition. Examples of conditions that cause secondary structural kyphosis include: osteoporosis, degenerative arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, connective tissue diseases, tuberculosis, paralysis and cancer.
Other Types
Post-traumatic kyphosis occurs as a result of some sort of physical trauma to the spine. A fracture in the thoracic or lumbar (lower back) spine, that doesn't heal properly can also cause kyphosis. Physical therapy, bracing, and surgery can help treat this type of kyphosis. Post-surgical kyphosis occurs when the spine fails to heal properly after surgery; it requires further surgery.
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