You’ve probably seen older people who always seem hunched over, with a rounded back and shoulders that pull forward. This condition is called kyphosis. It used to be called dowager’s hump because it was associated with older women. Kyphosis can affect people of any age or gender. The risk might be higher for people who spend a lot of time hunched over phones and desks.
If you have kyphosis, the main symptom you will notice is a rounded or hunched back. You may also have upper back pain, especially after sitting or standing for a long time. As the curve gets worse, it may be harder for you to bend or twist.
What Causes Kyphosis?
It’s caused when your upper back and neck muscles are weak and your neck and chest are tight. A few different factors can put you at higher risk for the condition:
- Osteoporosis: With osteoporosis, your bones get thinner and weaker. The vertebrae in your spine may collapse or get compressed, so your spine isn’t straight anymore. Women are more likely to have osteoporosis after menopause.
- Poor posture: Slouching or hunching forward can stress your back, especially if you sit or stand for a long time.
- Aging: As you get older, your bone density, muscle strength, and the elasticity of your connective tissue all get lower. Plus, you could develop changes in your spine that lead to curving. Kyphosis is more common in people over age 50.
- Lifestyle factors: Being sedentary, smoking, and poor nutrition can increase your risk.
Can You Reverse Kyphosis?
Whether you can reverse kyphosis depends on what’s causing it, how severe the curve is, and how well you respond to treatment. Starting targeted treatment early improves the odds of stopping or reversing the curve.
Practicing good posture, modifying your workspace by adjusting your chair and monitor, holding your cell phone so you are looking straight at it instead of down, getting regular physical activity, choosing bone-strengthening foods to get Vitamin D, and limiting processed foods, sugary beverages, and caffeine can assist in getting relief from kyphosis. Call Morea Chiropractic Wellness Center today to make an appointment!