Dr. Sachin Sharma

Kyphosis

Kyphosis refers to an excessive forward curvature of the spine. While some degree of thoracic kyphosis is normal, exaggerated curvature can affect posture, cause pain and in severe cases result in neurological compromise. Causes range from postural issues to degenerative changes, vertebral fractures and developmental conditions.

Common Causes of Kyphosis

  • Scheuermann's kyphosis (developmental)
  • Degenerative or age-related kyphosis
  • Osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures
  • Post-traumatic kyphosis
  • Post-surgical kyphosis (adjacent segment changes)
  • Congenital kyphosis
  • Kyphosis secondary to infection or tumor

Symptoms Requiring Evaluation

  • Visible rounding of the upper or lower back
  • Back pain associated with the deformity
  • Difficulty standing erect
  • Neurological symptoms (in severe cases)
  • Difficulty swallowing or breathing (in extreme cases)
  • Progressive deformity

Treatment Approach

Treatment depends on the underlying cause, severity and symptoms. Many cases can be managed conservatively; surgery is considered for significant deformity with pain or neurological compromise.

  • Postural physiotherapy and exercises
  • Pain management and bracing
  • Osteoporosis treatment (for related fractures)
  • Vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty (for osteoporotic fractures)
  • Posterior spinal instrumentation and fusion
  • Osteotomy procedures for rigid deformity (selected cases)

Dr. Sachin Sharma believes that treatment should begin with an accurate diagnosis and an individualized approach. Not every patient requires surgery - non-surgical options are always considered first whenever clinically appropriate.