Accurate diagnosis of kyphosis involves a thorough assessment by a medical professional to determine the cause and severity of the condition. Here’s an overview of the diagnostic process:

1. Medical History and Physical Examination: The process begins with a detailed discussion about your medical history, including any symptoms you’re experiencing, such as back pain or difficulty breathing. Your doctor will conduct a physical examination, assessing your posture and spine alignment. They will look for visible signs of curvature and measure the degree of spinal deformity by having you bend forward or perform other movements.

2. Imaging Studies: To get a clearer picture of the spinal curvature and underlying structures, your doctor may order imaging tests. X-rays are commonly used to visualise the degree of curvature and identify any structural abnormalities. For a more detailed view, especially of soft tissues, an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) might be recommended. This helps in assessing the condition of the spinal discs and surrounding tissues.

3. Computerised Tomography (CT) Scan: In some cases, a CT scan may be used for a more detailed cross-sectional view of the spine, especially if the X-rays or MRI results are inconclusive. This can provide a comprehensive view of the spinal alignment and any associated issues.

4. Bone Density Test: If osteoporosis is suspected as a contributing factor, your doctor might suggest a bone density test to evaluate bone strength and density.

By combining these diagnostic tools, healthcare professionals can accurately assess kyphosis and determine the most effective treatment plan tailored to your needs. If you have concerns about your spine or posture, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice for a comprehensive evaluation.

Managing kyphosis involves a personalised approach tailored to the severity of the condition and individual needs. Here’s an overview of how kyphosis is treated by medical professionals:

1. Conservative Treatments: For mild to moderate kyphosis, non-surgical treatments are often the first line of defence. Physical therapy plays a key role in strengthening the muscles around the spine, improving posture, and enhancing flexibility. Exercises may focus on strengthening the back and core, as well as stretching tight muscles. Pain management through medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help alleviate discomfort and improve quality of life. Additionally, wearing a back brace might be recommended to support proper spinal alignment and prevent progression, especially in adolescents with developing kyphosis.

2. Lifestyle Adjustments: Incorporating ergonomic changes and practising good posture habits can significantly impact the management of kyphosis. Your doctor may suggest adjustments to your workstation or daily activities to reduce strain on your spine and promote a more upright posture.

3. Surgical Interventions: In more severe cases of kyphosis, where conservative treatments are insufficient, surgical options may be considered. Spinal fusion surgery is one common approach, where the surgeon fuses two or more vertebrae together to stabilise the spine and correct abnormal curvature. This procedure often involves the use of metal rods and screws to support the spine during healing. For cases where kyphosis is due to significant vertebral compression or fractures, kyphoplasty might be performed. This minimally invasive procedure involves injecting a special cement into the fractured vertebra to restore its height and alleviate pain.

4. Osteotomy: In some complex cases, where realignment of the spine is needed, an osteotomy might be performed. This involves removing or reshaping parts of the vertebrae to correct the curvature and improve spinal alignment.

A comprehensive treatment plan is designed to address your specific needs and goals, aiming to relieve symptoms, improve function, and enhance overall quality of life. If you suspect you have kyphosis or are experiencing worsening symptoms, consult with a healthcare professional to explore the best treatment options for you.