Hyperkyphosis

Mechanism and manifestations

Causes include growth-related deformity, vertebral fractures and degenerative changes. A flexible rounded posture is not managed like a rigid bony deformity.

Diagnosis and management

Examination evaluates flexibility and balance; radiographs and bone-health assessment depend on context. Exercise, osteoporosis treatment, bracing or surgery have different indications. New pain after minor exertion may indicate fracture.

Points to consider

Deformity assessment considers age, remaining growth, global balance and symptoms. Images must be interpreted in light of acquisition position. Goals may include function and comfort, limiting progression or neurological protection, depending on the situation.

Role of TAGMED care

At TAGMED, assessment aims to understand symptoms, history and functional limitations. Manual care and osteopathy, motorized spinal decompression, laser and shockwave have different indications. The term described in this entry is not enough to select any of these modalities. Their relevance, limitations and possible contraindications should be discussed in relation to diagnosis and individual goals.

Related concepts and distinctions

These concepts belong to the same field, but are not synonyms.

• Degenerative scoliosis — Adult scoliotic deformity related to asymmetric disc and joint degeneration, sometimes developing after skeletal maturity.
• Flatback syndrome — Sagittal alignment disorder characterized by loss of lumbar lordosis that may make standing upright difficult without compensatory posture.
• Idiopathic scoliosis — Scoliosis for which no specific cause is identified after assessment, most often appearing during adolescent growth.

Medical references

1. Scoliosis Research Society. Kyphosis.
2. Scoliosis Research Society. Scoliosis.

References document the topic; their inclusion does not imply endorsement of TAGMED services by those organizations.