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.
Treatment depends on the cause of the disorder.
For kyphosis caused by poor posture, treatment may consist of exercises, a firm mattress for sleeping, and a back brace to straighten the curve until growth is complete. Bedrest is recommended for severe pain. Gradual weaning from the brace begins after maximum correction of the curve by the back brace has occurred. Treatment for other types of kyphosis includes identifying the cause of the kyphosis. Surgery may rarely be indicated if neurological symptoms occur.