Kyphosis
Kyphosis describes the exaggerated curve of the spine that results in a rounded or hunched back. It may develop for several reasons. Postural kyphosis in children and adolescents may be related to habit and posture rather than underlying spinal deformity. In contrast, structural kyphosis is caused by an abnormality affecting the bones, intervertebral discs, nerves, ligaments or muscles.
In adolescents, structural kyphosis may be caused by initial spine development with a rounded shape that is made worse by further growth. In the elderly, compression fractures characteristically result in loss of height and deformity.
Our Approach to Kyphosis
UCSF is home to one of the largest centers in the country dedicated to evaluating and treating spinal disorders such as kyphosis. Patients have access to the most up-to-date diagnostic imaging techniques as well as innovative treatments that are not widely available. Our team includes world-renowned specialists in neurosurgery, orthopedic surgery, neurology, pain management, physical therapy, psychiatry, radiology and rheumatology. These experts work together to personalize a plan for each patient.
Treatment for kyphosis depends on the cause and severity of the deformity. Physical therapy and attention to posture can correct the curvature in some patients. Others require surgery to extend the rounded spine or fuse vertebrae. We are experts in state-of-the-art, minimally invasive techniques such as balloon kyphoplasty, in which surgeons use a small balloon to lift collapsed bone back into position. Our aim is for patients to spend less time under anesthesia, recover more quickly and, ultimately, experience a better quality of life.
Awards & recognition
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Best hospital in Northern California
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One of the nation’s best in orthopedics
UCSF Health medical specialists have reviewed this information. It is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or other health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your provider.
Kyphosis
Signs and Symptoms
The most prominent symptom of kyphosis is a slouching posture or hunchback. Other symptoms include:
- Back pain
- Difficulty standing upright or stiffness
- Fatigue of the back and legs
UCSF Health medical specialists have reviewed this information. It is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or other health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your provider.
Kyphosis
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of kyphosis is based on physical examination of the spine and X-rays. Your doctor may ask you to bend forward so that he or she can evaluate the spine in the position of maximal extension to assess the flexibility of the spine and the structural nature of the deformity.
UCSF Health medical specialists have reviewed this information. It is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or other health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your provider.
Kyphosis
Treatments
Treatment depends on the severity of the deformity. In patients with a flexible deformity, physical therapy and attention to posture may result in significant improvement. In patients with rigid deformity of the spine, surgery may be needed.
Surgery for kyphosis involves extending the rounded spine, fusing vertebrae together and using braces to maintain correction. In older patients with kyphosis that is related to compression fractures and osteoporosis, kyphosis may be corrected with a minimally invasive procedure called a balloon kyphoplasty. During this procedure a small balloon is inserted, through a small incision, into the collapsed bone to restore its shape. It is then filled with a substance that hardens and helps the bone expand.
UCSF Health medical specialists have reviewed this information. It is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or other health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your provider.
Seeking care at UCSF Health
Kyphosis
Resources & Support
At UCSF Health, we are renowned for our highly specialized and cutting-edge medical care. Along with innovative medicine, we strive to provide a variety of services to ensure that patients and families are fully supported while in our care. UCSF has a team of experienced social workers and condition-specific support groups as well as classes to help patients and families navigate their experiences while in our clinics and hospitals.
Our support services also include unique programs to help heal the mind and spirit, such as Art for Recovery, Healing Through Dance and complimentary spa treatments during infusion therapy. During an unfamiliar and stressful time, UCSF’s support services are ready to lend a hand whenever patients and families need it most.
