Overview
Kyphosis is an exaggerated forward rounding of the upper back. A mild curve is normal; a larger curve can cause pain, fatigue and a stooped posture.
In adults, common causes include osteoporosis with compression fractures, disc degeneration and long-term posture habits. Treatment depends on the cause.
Watch and learn
Video: “Mayo Clinic Minute - Help with kyphosis” from Mayo Clinic on YouTube. It loads from youtube-nocookie.com only when you press play. Shown for general education; GSMC did not produce it. Watch on YouTube
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Symptoms
- Rounded upper back or stooped posture
- Back pain or stiffness
- Fatigue in the back and legs
- Rarely, breathing difficulty or nerve symptoms in severe curves
Causes
- Vertebral compression fractures from osteoporosis
- Disc degeneration
- Postural kyphosis
- Scheuermann’s kyphosis (begins in adolescence)
- Prior surgery or injury
How it is diagnosed
Standing X-rays measure the curve. MRI or CT is used if fractures, nerve compression or other causes are suspected; a bone density test checks for osteoporosis.
Treatment options, step by step
A spine surgeon looks at the whole picture, including options short of surgery. Not every step applies to every person.
Self-care and lifestyle
Posture and back-extensor strengthening, walking and fall prevention.
Physical therapy and medications
Physical therapy and osteoporosis evaluation and treatment.
Injections and nerve blocks
Nerve blocks are occasionally used for pain control.
Minimally invasive procedures
Kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty for painful compression fractures.
Surgical evaluation
Deformity correction surgery is considered for severe, progressive or neurologically significant curves.
Nonsurgical alternatives
Many spine problems are managed without surgery. See our nonsurgical options and holistic and lifestyle care guides.
Related surgeries
Call 732-202-3000 to confirm which surgeon performs this procedure and where.
When to seek urgent care
Call 911 or go to the emergency department for new or rapidly worsening weakness, numbness in the groin or inner thighs, loss of bladder or bowel control, or severe pain after a fall or accident.
Frequently asked questions
Can posture exercises help?
Exercises may help postural kyphosis and improve strength and comfort, but they do not reverse curves caused by fractures or bone shape.
Is kyphosis linked to osteoporosis?
Yes. Compression fractures are a common cause in older adults, so bone health testing is often recommended.
When is surgery needed?
Surgery is uncommon and reserved for severe or progressive curves, nerve compression or disabling pain.
This page is general patient education and does not replace advice from your own clinician. Individual results vary.