Kyphosis may occur in children, adolescents, or adults.
Kyphosis occurring at birth is rare.
Adolescent kyphosis, also known as Scheuermann's disease, may result from growth retardation or a disorder in the vertebrae during periods of rapid growth. Other causes of kyphosis include infection, inflammation, disk degeneration, osteoporosis of the vertebrae, endocrine diseases, arthritis , Paget's disease , polio , compression fractures of the vertebrae, cancer , tuberculosis , or poor posture. Risk factors are related to the causes. Periodic physical examinations during childhood, particularly during growth spirts, will aid in early diagnosis, treatment and prevention of progression and complications. A spine X-ray may be performed.