Video Explanation: Kyphosis – What Parents Need to Know

Kyphosis is the physiological curvature of the thoracic spine (the upper back), normally between 20° and 45°. When this curvature is excessive, it's called hyperkyphosis or "round back," a condition frequently seen especially in adolescents. **Postural vs structural kyphosis:** The distinction is crucial. Postural kyphosis is linked to incorrect habits (prolonged sitting, smartphone use, heavy backpack) and is completely correctable with exercises and postural correction. Structural kyphosis (like Scheuermann's disease) involves vertebral alterations and requires more structured treatment. **Scheuermann's disease:** This is the most common form of structural kyphosis in adolescents. The thoracic vertebrae take on a "wedge" shape instead of rectangular, causing a permanent increase in the curve. It appears during the pubertal growth spurt and is more frequent in males. **How to recognize it:** The simplest test is observing the teenager bent forward: if the thoracic "hump" is pronounced and doesn't correct with voluntary effort to straighten up, it could be structural kyphosis. **Treatment:** Postural kyphosis responds well to physical therapy, paraspinal muscle strengthening exercises, and pectoral stretching. Moderate Scheuermann's disease may require bracing, while severe cases (rare) may need surgery.