A “buffalo hump” refers to a fatty deposit that forms at the base of the neck, situated at the top of the back between the shoulders. This accumulation of tissue can sometimes lead to discomfort or pain. This article explores the factors contributing to a buffalo hump, why it might hurt, and potential strategies for relief.
Understanding a Buffalo Hump
A buffalo hump, medically known as a dorsocervical fat pad, is a collection of fatty tissue located on the upper back, near the neck. It manifests as a visible lump between the shoulder blades. The size and prominence of this fat accumulation can vary. It is important to distinguish a buffalo hump, which is a fat deposit, from a “Dowager’s hump,” which involves a curvature of the upper spine often caused by poor posture or osteoporosis.
Common Causes
Various underlying conditions and external factors can contribute to a buffalo hump. One cause is Cushing’s syndrome, a condition caused by prolonged high cortisol levels, which can redistribute fat. This excess cortisol can stem from the body producing too much (e.g., due to pituitary tumors or adrenal gland issues) or from external sources like certain medications.
Certain medications can also cause a buffalo hump as a side effect. Long-term use of corticosteroids, such as prednisone and hydrocortisone, can alter fat distribution, leading to fat accumulation in the dorsocervical area. Some antiretroviral drugs used to treat HIV can also cause excessive fatty tissue in the upper back.
Obesity is another common factor, as weight gain can lead to increased fat deposits in various areas, including the back of the neck. Poor posture, characterized by slouching or a forward head position, can contribute to the appearance of a hump, sometimes exacerbating existing fat deposits or leading to a pronounced spinal curvature. While not a direct cause of fat accumulation, poor posture can create a visual hump or make an existing one more noticeable. Genetic predisposition may also play a role, as some individuals might be more prone to fat accumulation in this specific area.
Why Pain Occurs
While a buffalo hump itself is not always painful, it can lead to discomfort through several mechanisms. The weight of a larger fat deposit can cause tension and strain in the surrounding neck and upper back muscles, leading to soreness and aching.
The accumulated fat can also exert pressure on nearby nerves in the neck and upper back region, potentially leading to pain or numbness. A buffalo hump can worsen existing postural issues, contributing to a forward-leaning posture. This altered alignment places additional stress on the cervical spine and shoulders, which can exacerbate neck and upper back pain. Reduced mobility in the neck, sometimes caused by the hump’s size, can also contribute to overall discomfort and functional limitations.
Managing Discomfort
Managing the discomfort associated with a buffalo hump often begins with practical, non-medical approaches. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Applying heat or cold packs to the affected area may also provide temporary relief from muscle tension and soreness.
Improving posture is a significant step, involving conscious effort to maintain proper alignment and making ergonomic adjustments in daily activities, such as work setups. Regular exercise and stretching routines for the neck and upper back can help improve flexibility, strengthen supporting muscles, and reduce stiffness. For individuals where obesity is a contributing factor, weight management through a balanced diet and regular physical activity can help reduce fat accumulation, potentially decreasing the hump’s size and associated discomfort.
Medical Approaches and Treatment
When pain persists, the hump grows rapidly, or if neurological symptoms like numbness develop, seeking medical evaluation is important. A healthcare provider can diagnose a buffalo hump through a physical examination and may order imaging tests, such as MRI, CT scans, or X-rays, to assess the fat deposit and rule out other conditions. Blood tests may also check hormone levels, particularly cortisol, to identify underlying causes like Cushing’s syndrome.
Treating the underlying cause is the primary approach to reducing a buffalo hump. This may involve managing conditions like Cushing’s syndrome or adjusting medications under medical supervision if they are contributing factors. Never stop or alter prescribed medications without consulting a doctor.
Physical therapy can also be beneficial, focusing on posture correction and strengthening exercises to manage pain and improve mobility.
For cases where the hump is primarily a fat deposit and not solely due to spinal curvature, liposuction is a surgical option for removal. This procedure targets and removes the excess fatty tissue. Recovery from liposuction for a buffalo hump is generally straightforward, with most individuals returning to regular activities within a few days.