What it is
Mild kyphosis usually causes few problems. Exercises, physiotherapy and pain relief can help.
Children whose spine is still growing may need a back brace, and surgery is rarely needed for severe curves.
Common signs
- A rounded or hunched back
- Back pain and stiffness
- Tiredness
- Breathing difficulties in severe cases
How it is usually diagnosed
- Examination of the spine
- X-rays
- MRI or bone density scans, sometimes
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Spine X-ray reports with curve measurements
- Bone density results
- Orthopaedic and physiotherapy letters
Questions to ask your doctor
- What is causing my kyphosis?
- Could exercises help?
- Should my bone density be checked?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Numbness or weakness in the legs, or loss of bladder or bowel control: call 112
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.