Kyphosis is a condition that affects more than 3 million people per year in the United States. It is a disorder where a curve of the spine results in an abnormal arch in the upper back. In the more severe cases, this is what we normally call a hunchback. The most characteristic symptom of kyphosis is back pain. However, another less (or, paradoxically, more) notorious effect is the emotional distress it produces on the sufferer due to the deformity it causes. For Texas residents looking to alleviate this condition, we recommend visiting the best doctors in Webster, Texas. Read and learn how you, too, can get better.
Diagnosis and Symptoms
Symptoms of Kyphosis
As briefly described above, symptoms of kyphosis are:
- Abnormal posture due to an overly pronounced curve of the neck
- Weakness and numbness in the legs (in the case of congenital kyphosis)
- Fatigue
- Spine stiffness
- Tight hamstrings
If the condition remains untreated, symptoms can evolve into:
- Loss of sensation
- Changes in bowel or bladder habits
- Shortness of breath or other breathing difficulties
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How can a Kyphosis Doctor in Webster Diagnose it?
Oftentimes, kyphosis does not represent an issue and goes unnoticed. If a patient presents any of the symptoms described above, however, it is time to book an appointment. When visiting a kyphosis doctor in Webster, Texas, your consultation will begin with a short questionnaire. After that, the specialist will perform a physical exam which consists of the patient bending forward with both feet together, knees straight, and the arms hanging free —the Adam’s forward bend test. This examination allows the doctor to assess the spine and whether there is any cause to worry.
Another way to diagnose kyphosis is by performing X-rays. These not only help decipher whether there is an abnormal curve, but also the degree of it. It is important to note that once the condition is diagnosed, the only way is up —pun intended.
Space City Pain – Kyphosis Doctor in Webster Texas – bending test 2@2x.png
Treatment of Kyphosis
Every case of kyphosis is really different and treatment will aim mainly at trying to stop the worsening of the condition. Therefore, recommendations will vary depending on the age, sex, spine flexibility, and lifestyle of the patient.
For mild cases, doctors suggest doing posture exercises to strengthen your muscles. In the more severe cases, treatment can include the following:
Physical Therapy
PT encompasses a breadth of posture exercises, but includes the guidance of a specialized physical therapist. Physiotherapy is designed to strengthen back and core muscles, reduce pain and improve posture. A consistent approach to therapy can lead to improvements and halt the progression of the condition.
Bracing
During our developing stage, braces can help correct posture and prevent the condition from worsening. Whereas it feels restrictive and, let’s face it, can also be stigmatizing, it is a very effective way to treat kyphosis and it is not a long treatment.
Surgery
The most severe cases of kyphosis, as well as congenital kyphosis, might require surgery. This procedure is called Spinal fusion. Its goal is to reduce the degree of the curve, prevent further curve progression and maintain that improvement. Finally, patients also benefit from surgery in that it alleviates back pain.
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What Can Our Kyphosis Doctors in Webster, Texas, Do for You?
Our board-certified physicians specialize in alleviating kyphosis-induced pain and correcting posture. At a Space City Pain clinic, our kyphosis doctors in Webster, Texas, will provide a diagnosis.
Space City Pain has been at the forefront of kyphosis treatments in the community since 2004 and continues to excel at patient care. Our friendly, bilingual, and highly specialized staff are ready to provide relief to patients. Book an appointment and start enjoying the benefits of getting on the path back to health.
