M.D. The term kyphosis is used to describe the normal curve of the thoracic spine. Sometimes, adolescents may develop an excessive degree of kyphosis, called hyperkyphosis.
Kyphosis is measured on a lateral radiograph of the thoracic spine, taken with the patient standing.
In normal adolescents, the kyphosis measures on average twenty to forty degrees. Measurements greater than this are considered hyperkyphotic. Several conditions may lead to hyperkyphosis,but two of the most common are Scheuermann's kyphosis and postural roundback. It is necessary to distinguish between these two conditions if proper treatment is to be provided. Scheuermann's kyphosis typically presents when patients are in the early teenage years.