Physical Therapy Can Help Manage Kyphosis
Are you experiencing upper back pain, or noticing that you appear to have a more rounded back from the side? Kyphosis is a rounding of the back. Graham Therapy and Fitness in Bethesda, MD, offers physical therapy, support, and guidance for kyphosis, scoliosis, and many other conditions. Our skilled therapists specialize in the treatment of spinal ailments and would be happy to do a full evaluation.
Contact our physical therapy clinic today to learn more about our treatment methods for kyphosis in Bethesda, MD, and how our physical therapy programs can improve your quality of life.
What is Kyphosis?
Kyphosis is defined as a spinal disorder in which an excessive outward curve of the spine results in an abnormal rounding of the upper back.
Kyphosis is often a result of osteoporosis and can vary in severity from minor changes in the way your back is shaped, to developing nerve problems, chronic pain, or noticeable deformities. According to UMMS, “Kyphosis is most common in the thoracic spine, though it can also affect the cervical and lumbar spine.”
The spine consists of many stacked vertebrae that are connected by cartilage. They’re slightly rounded, which makes the upper back curve outwards.
At the front of the body, kyphosis may contribute to the head being more forward, shoulders more forward, abdomen or belly pushed forward and also can cause the rib cage border at the front to compress into the abdomen. Kyphosis may contribute to difficulties, for example, with lying down flat, posture imbalance, changes in breathing mechanics and in some cases may contribute to pain.
Sometimes a patient may need to wear a back brace though or do posture correcting exercises to strengthen their spine and restore breathing mechanics.
Symptoms & common causes of kyphosis in Bethesda, MD
In mild cases of kyphosis, the spinal curve is not always noticeable. However, the most obvious sign of kyphosis is a forward curve in the upper to mid part of the spine. This curve may cause a person to appear as if they are bending forwards with rounded shoulders.
Other symptoms may include:
- back pain
- stiffness in the upper back
- a rounded back
- tight hamstrings
The three most common types of kyphosis include postural kyphosis, Scheuermann’s kyphosis, and congenital kyphosis. This condition can be caused by several things, such as osteoporosis, aging, or vertebrae that are shaped differently.
If you’re experiencing symptoms related to this condition, it’s a good idea to have a full evaluation completed for you at Graham Therapy and Fitness in Bethesda, MD. The longer this condition goes untreated, there may be long-term complications and side effects, such as:
- an irreversible rounding in the back
- persistent back pain
- weakness or numbness in the arms and legs
- breathing difficulties
- loss of bladder control
“I have remained pain-free after 1 year!”
What can a physical therapist do for kyphosis in Bethesda, MD?
As previously mentioned, sometimes all that is necessary for the treatment of kyphosis is a back brace to encourage the natural alignment of the spine. However, in other cases, there may be a need for intervention by a physical therapist. Physical therapy treatment for this condition focuses on preventing the curve from getting worse in the future.
A physical therapist’s goal is to be able to restore normal posture to the highest degree possible and prevent deformities from occurring. Treatment for kyphosis also depends on the type and severity of the curve.
During your first appointment at Graham Therapy, a therapist will perform a comprehensive physical evaluation to determine the type of kyphosis you have as well as its severity to create the best plan of treatment for you.
They will create a physical therapy treatment plan including targeted stretches and exercises you can do both in the office with their help, and eventually at home on your own. Some examples of exercises that might be included in your program include knee rolls, pelvic tilting, and exercises that bring your knees up to your chest. These exercises will both strengthen your core and back muscles.
Let’s get things straightened out!
Physical therapy can help relieve back pain and improve your posture. Your therapist will be a skilled professional, who will be able to teach you certain exercises to stretch out tight hamstrings and strengthen areas of your body that may also be impacted by the misalignment of your spine due to kyphosis.
Dealing with this kind of pain day in and day out is tiring, not to mention a hassle to try and treat on your own! If you’re ready to have your condition assessed, or are experiencing any of the above-mentioned symptoms, contact our clinic today to schedule your first appointment.
Your Next Steps…
Request An Appointment
Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free!