Patient education: Kyphosis in children (The Basics)

What is kyphosis in children? — 

Kyphosis is a curving of the upper back. A normal backbone, also called the "spine," has a slight curve. In a child with kyphosis, the upper part of the spine curves more than normal, causing a rounded or hunched back (figure 1).

What causes kyphosis in children? — 

Kyphosis in children is caused by problems with the vertebrae. Vertebrae are the bones of the spine. Each has a hole in the center. The vertebrae are stacked on top of each other, and the holes form a hollow tube called the "spinal canal." The spinal cord passes through this tube and is protected by the vertebrae.

The main types of kyphosis include:

●Congenital kyphosis – This is when a baby is born with kyphosis ("congenital" means the person was born with the condition). It happens because of a problem with the vertebrae that happens before birth.

●Postural kyphosis – This happens if a child does not stand up straight or slouches. It is more common in teen girls than in younger girls or boys of any age.

●Scheuermann kyphosis – This is when some vertebrae in the upper spine are shaped like a wedge instead of a rectangle. This causes the upper part of the spine to curve.

What are the symptoms of kyphosis? — 

The main symptom is a hunched or rounded back. The back might hurt or feel stiff.

Will my child need tests? — 

Probably. The doctor or nurse should be able to tell if your child has kyphosis by doing an exam. But they might order a back X-ray or other tests. These let the doctor or nurse see the bones of the spine and measure the curve of the back.

How is kyphosis treated? — 

The treatment depends on what caused the kyphosis and how serious it is.

Children with congenital kyphosis often need surgery to fix the vertebrae problems.

Children with postural kyphosis often do not need treatment. When done correctly, exercises to stretch and strengthen the back can help.

Children with Scheuermann kyphosis can:

●Do exercises to stretch and strengthen the back

●Avoid activities that cause pain

●Take medicines to ease pain

●Wear a back brace

If they continue to have pain or have severe kyphosis, children with Scheuermann kyphosis sometimes need surgery.

More on this topic

Patient education: Kyphosis in adults (The Basics)
Patient education: Upper back pain (The Basics)

Patient education: Back pain in children and adolescents (Beyond the Basics)