Understanding Kyphosis in Children: Signs, Causes & Diagnosis

Kyphosis is a condition in which there is a noticeable curvature of the spine in the upper back. It gives the appearance of what is often referred to as a hunched back. This can result from Scheuermann disease, which may deform the vertebrae; from a congenital defect; or simply from years of poor posture. It is best diagnosed by X-ray, but some outwards signs can usually be seen as well.

Timeline of Appearance

• Outward signs of postural kyphosis or kyphosis caused by Scheuermann disease will become apparent from ages 10 to15, whereas congenital kyphosis will likely be obvious earlier.

Shoulders

• Children with kyphosis will often have shoulders that do not match up at the same height or position.

Head Bent

• Kyphosis will often cause the child's head to bend forward compared with the rest of the body.

Upper Back

• The upper back will be hunched forward in children with kyphosis and will often appear unusually high up when the child bends over forward.

Lower Back

• The lower back may curve in dramatically when compared to the rest of the curvature of the spine.