​Kyp​hosis

Kyphosis is a bowed or rounded back. While some rounding of the back is normal, an abnormal curvature can lead to pain and disfigurement.

You may develop kyphosis as a result of aging. This happens after your bones weaken and compress because of osteoporosis. Kyphosis can also occur in teenagers and children due to malformation of the spine.

Individuals with kyphosis may experience:

  • Visible rounding or hump in the upper back
  • Back pain and stiffness
  • Fatigue
  • In severe cases, difficulty breathing due to reduced space in the chest cavity.
Symptoms can vary depending on the severity and underlying cause of the curvature.​

Consult our Orthopaedic Surgery or Physiotherapy experts if you experience:

  • A noticeable curve in the upper back
  • Persistent back pain or stiffness
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Neurological symptoms such as numbness or weakness

​Early medical evaluation can help determine the cause and appropriate treatment plan.​

Your time with your doctor may be limited, so make sure to prepare for your visit beforehand. Here are some tips to help get you started. ​

To diagnose kyphosis, your doctor may perform:

  • Physical Examination: Assessing posture, spine flexibility, and any visible curvature.
  • Imaging Tests:
    • X-rays: To measure the degree of spinal curvature and detect structural abnormalities.
    • MRI or CT Scans: To evaluate the spinal cord and detect any compression or underlying conditions.
  • Pulmonary Function Tests: In severe cases, to assess if the curvature affects breathing.
These evaluations help in determining the severity and underlying cause of kyphosis.​

Treatment options for kyphosis depend on the cause and severity and may include:

Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen back and abdominal muscles, improving posture and alleviating pain.

  • Pain Management: Anti-inflammatory medications to relieve discomfort.
  • Bracing: In children and adolescents, wearing a brace during growth spurts to prevent worsening of the curve.
  • Surgical Intervention: In severe cases, procedures like spinal fusion to correct the curvature and alleviate symptoms.

A personalized treatment plan is essential for effective management of kyphosis.​​

The Aga Khan University Hospital offers various support services to help with managing or recovering from the disease or condition. These include but are not limited to nutrition, physiotherapy, rehabilitation, specialised clinics and some patient support groups. Your doctor or nurse will advise you accordingly.

The Aga Khan University Hospital offers financial assistance to those who are in need and fulfil the eligibility criteria. For further information, you can contact the Patient Welfare Department. You can find the contact number of the Patient Welfare Department in the 'Numbers' section on the website homepage.

The financial counselling staff is available during office hours, at the main PBSD (Patient Business Services Department), to answer your financial queries on treatment costs and authorise admissions on partial deposit as per hospital policies. The financial counsellor in the emergency room is open 24/7. You can find the contact number of the Patient Business Services in the 'Numbers' section on the website homepage.​

Your doctor and/or nurse will give you specific instructions about the prescribed medication. Please ensure that you take or use the prescribed medicine as advised. It can be dangerous to your health if you self-prescribe. Please inform the doctor or nurse beforehand if you have experienced any adverse reactions to any medications in the past. If you experience any symptoms of drug poisoning, overdose, or severe reaction, please contact the Pharmacy Services at The Aga Khan University Hospital immediately. You can find the contact number of the Pharmacy Services in the 'Important Numbers' section on the website homepage.​
​


The information provided on our website is for educational purposes and not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should always seek the advice of your doctor or other healthcare professional provider.​