Round Back

A round back can be a result of aging in older people, or it can occur due to a malformation in younger people, and the treatment depends on the case.

Round back

Round back is the forward curvature of the spine in the upper back, around the thoracic region.

Kyphosis doesn’t cause health issues in most of the cases, but sometimes it can cause some symptoms.

Causes of round back

A round back occurs when the vertebrae in the back become more curved than normal, and this may occur due to the following:

• Bad posture.
• Fractures and spinal injuries.
• Osteoporosis.
• Structure abnormalities of the spine bones.
• Abnormalities in bone growth.
• Degeneration of the disks, which are the soft cushions between the vertebrae.
• Scheuermann’s disease.
• Congenital kyphosis.

Symptoms of round back

• When the round back is mild, it may not be noticeable, but when the condition progresses, it causes rounded shoulders, a curve in the upper back, and tight hamstrings.
• Sever kyphosis can lead to pain and stiffness in the shoulder and back, limited physical functions, digestive problems (like acid reflux and difficulty swallowing), weak or numb legs, balance issues, fatigue, difficulty breathing, and bladder or bowel incontinence.

Diagnosis of round back

• Physical exam.
• Imaging tests.
• Bone density test.
• Nerve tests.

Treatment of round back

Treating round back depends on the case, and treatments include the following:

• Medicines.
• Physical therapy.
• Back brace.
• Surgery.
• The risk of kyphosis can be reduced in certain cases by maintaining a good posture, exercising, strengthening the back and abdominal muscles, maintaining a healthy weight, and carrying bags in a sturdy backpack or roller bag.