To explain what postural kyphosis is about, we must affirm that the spine is not straight, at all. It has small concavities in three areas of the back: the neck, the dorsal area and the lower back. When these curves are modified by augmentation, we speak of hyperkyphosis, in the case of dorsal curvature, or hyperlordosis, both in the cervical and lumbar.
When it is the other way around and these curves are rectified, we speak of a flat back, in relation to the dorsal curvature, and of cervical and lumbar rectification.
The most striking of these changes in the natural balance of the back is hyperkyphosis.
What is the cause of hyperkyphosis?
The origin of the hyperkyphosis, the bulky back at the height of the dorsals, is diverse. So the easiest way to explain it is to classify it into two large groups:
Postural hyperkyphosis
The cause of postural hypercifosis is usually repeated poor posture.
It is possible to correct it by being aware of the postures that we adopt and trying to keep the back upright while enduring a good posture. In this case there are no deformations in the bones of the spine. Usually, we see it in children and adolescents of growing age, women with large breasts. Also, in people who are very tall and others who work many hours sitting or with computers.
Structural hyperkyphosis
Structural hyperkyphosis cannot be corrected only by postural work. Its causes are different from a bad posture and can be related to different problems in the spine.
Congenital hyperkyphosis
People with this type of structural hyperkyphosis are born with absence of parts of the spine or that have not fully formed. A person with a vertebra that has not formed properly may develop hyperkyphosis due to underlying structural problems that originate from this malformation.
Treatment
The corset, postural reeducation and chiropractic adjustment are the three great tricks to correct those that occur due to impact trauma or degenerative diseases.
As for postural hygiene, it is essential in all processes, not only to improve, but also to prevent. Especially as children, learning to stay upright and avoid overloading ourselves with weight.
At the London Spine Unit, we have some of the best specialists to diagnose and treat postural kyphosis. Book an appointment to get a checkup.
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What is the cause of hyperkyphosis?
The origin of the hyperkyphosis, the bulky back at the height of the dorsals, is diverse. So, the easiest way to explain it is to classify it into two large groups: postural and structural hyperkyphosis.
What is congenital hyperkyphosis?
People with this type of structural hyperkyphosis are born with absence of parts of the spine or that have not fully formed. A person with a vertebra that has not formed properly may develop hyperkyphosis due to underlying structural problems that originate from this malformation.
What is the treatment for hyperkyphosis?
The corset, postural reeducation and chiropractic adjustment are the three great tricks to correct those that occur due to impact trauma or degenerative diseases.