The term “humpback” describes a medical condition called kyphosis, an excessive forward curvature of the upper spine that creates a rounded or hunched appearance. Kyphosis can affect individuals of any gender or age and results from changes to the vertebrae, the small bones that make up the spine.
Causes of a Hunched Back
The causes of kyphosis are varied. The most common type is postural kyphosis, which becomes noticeable during adolescence and is more common in girls. This form is not caused by spinal abnormalities but by habitual slouching, which stretches muscles and ligaments, pulling the vertebrae out of alignment. It is generally not painful.
Structural kyphosis involves changes to the vertebrae. Scheuermann’s kyphosis occurs when the front of the vertebrae grows slower than the back, causing them to become wedge-shaped. This condition appears in teenagers and is more common in males. Another structural cause is congenital kyphosis, where the spine does not form correctly before birth and can worsen as a child grows.
Kyphosis in adults can develop from age-related changes. Osteoporosis, a bone-weakening condition, can lead to compression fractures in the vertebrae. This is the most frequent cause of kyphosis in adults and is more prevalent in women. Degenerative conditions like spinal arthritis also contribute by causing wear and tear on spinal discs and joints.
Associated Health Issues
Beyond the visible rounding of the back, many individuals experience persistent back pain and stiffness. The back muscles may also become fatigued as they work harder to support the curved posture.
A more pronounced curve can have significant effects. The forward posture may compress the chest cavity, reducing lung capacity and making breathing difficult. Pressure on the abdomen can interfere with digestion, causing acid reflux or difficulty swallowing. In rare cases, severe kyphosis can affect nerve function if the spinal cord or nerve roots are compressed.
Management and Treatment Approaches
Management approaches depend on the cause and severity of the kyphosis. For postural kyphosis, conservative methods are effective. Physical therapy is recommended to strengthen core abdominal and back muscles to support the spine and improve posture. Specific exercises can also stretch tight muscles, like the hamstrings, that contribute to poor posture.
For growing adolescents with conditions like Scheuermann’s kyphosis, a back brace may be used to guide spinal growth and prevent the curve from worsening. A medical professional determines the type of brace and duration of use based on the patient’s remaining growth and curve severity.
Surgery is a final option for severe cases, reserved for individuals with significant pain unresponsive to other treatments or when the curve causes health complications. The most common procedure is spinal fusion, where a surgeon aligns and joins several vertebrae to correct the curve and stabilize the spine.