Kyphosis is auniversal concern among parents who just want their children to havegood posture. Children whose curvature exceeds a limited range of variation - curving forward in a “C” shape- do require medical attention, the result of which may bethe diagnosis of kyphosis. Together with scoliosis, another type of curvature, this condition comprises a significant proportion of spinal deformity diagnoses seen by pediatric orthopedists.
The origin of the condition can be idiopathic (of unknown origin), congenital (present at birth) or neuromuscular (related to the nerves and muscles). In most cases, the vertebral bodies appear healthy on x-ray.Abnormal development of the spinal column in the womb characterizes congenital kyphosis. The vertebrae may be formed abnormally or may be fused together.
The origin of the Kyphosis can be idiopathic (of unknown origin), congenital (present at birth) or neuromuscular (related to the nerves and muscles). Abnormal development of the spinal column in the womb characterizes congenital kyphosis. The vertebrae may be formed abnormally or may be fused together. Surgical intervention is frequently required in order to prevent progressive deformity as well as to prevent injury to the spinal cord.
Kyphosis is diagnosed in children with a forward curve of greater than 45 degrees.
Children with kyphosis who are able to straighten up to normal posture are considered to have flexible round back deformity. In such cases the pediatric orthopedist may recommend physical therapy to strengthen the back muscles. “Many of these children respond well and do not need additional therapy,” says Daniel W. Green, MD, Associate Attending Orthopedic Surgery at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS).
In cases where the x-ray shows specific vertebral body changes, the child may be diagnosed with Scheuermann’s kyphosis. This condition usually appears in adolescence. Scheuermann’s kyphosis is marked by the presence of vertebral wedging in three or more vertebrae in a row, which can be seen on a lateral (side-view) x-ray.
In a growing child, treatment of Scheuermann’s kyphosis with a spine brace may be effective. However, if the deformity continues to progress—reaching 70 degrees or greater—and the child has finished growing, surgical intervention is an option. In such cases, instrumentation is used to bring the spine into alignment, and bone grafts are made to maintain the correction of the spine.
According to Roger Widmann, MD, Chief of Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery at HSS, “Rarely, with very large, stiff kyphosis, anterior (front) spinal release and fusion surgery is required in addition to posterior (rear) spinal fusion and instrumentation in order to achieve satisfactory alignment and fusion of the spine.” Left untreated, Scheurmann’s kyphosis may result in progressive deformity, back pain, and, very infrequently, neurological problems.
If you would like more information about the Scoliosis Service at HSS, please visit the Physician Referral Service or call 1.877.606.1555.
Reviewed and Updated: 12/12/2012
Summary by Nancy Novick