What Is Kyphosis?
Kyphosis is an excessive forward curve of the upper spine that creates a rounded back appearance. The curve usually involves the thoracic spine, although related spinal changes can affect posture and movement. Kyphosis may reflect spinal structure, developmental changes, or prolonged postural habits, so assessment focuses on the curve’s location and behavior.
Quick Facts About Kyphosis
Category
Spinal curvature
Used for
Describing excessive upper-back rounding
Common confusion
Scoliosis involves a side-to-side curve
Also called
Roundback
Often discussed with
Scoliosis Treatment, Posture Correction
Key Takeaways About Kyphosis
- Kyphosis primarily affects the forward curve of the upper spine.
- Postural kyphosis may change with position or movement.
- Kyphosis is not the same as scoliosis, which curves the spine sideways.
How Kyphosis Works
Kyphosis describes the forward curve formed by the vertebrae in the upper back. A normal thoracic curve helps the spine distribute movement and support the trunk. Excessive curvature can change the position of the head, shoulders, ribs, and pelvis.
Related glossary terms: Thoracic Spine, Lordosis.
Clinicians assess the curve through posture observation, movement checks, and a review of symptoms or relevant history. Thoracic spine alignment provides context because the upper back often contributes to the visible rounding. Postural kyphosis may change when you stand taller or move, while structural kyphosis remains more consistent across positions. The assessment also distinguishes kyphosis from lordosis, which refers to an inward spinal curve.
From the Arrowhead Clinic Chiropractor Marietta team
When we assess Kyphosis during Scoliosis Treatment, we observe posture and spinal movement together. We also consider whether the upper-back curve changes with position, since that detail helps guide the clinical discussion and care plan.
Kyphosis in Practice: A Real-World Example
A person with rounded shoulders and an upper-back curve that becomes less noticeable when standing upright may show postural Kyphosis. During Scoliosis Treatment, the team can examine how the curve relates to spinal movement and overall posture.
Related Services
Related Terms
Thoracic Spine
The thoracic spine is the middle section of the spinal column, located between the cervical spine…
Lordosis
Lordosis is an inward curve of the spine, most often seen in the neck or lower…
Arrowhead Clinic Chiropractor Marietta
Have Questions About Kyphosis?
Contact Arrowhead Clinic Chiropractor Marietta for practical guidance on Kyphosis and related chiropractor work in Marietta.