Kyphosis

19 June 2025

Overview

Kyphosis refers to an excessive forward curvature of the upper spine. While a certain degree of curvature is natural, more pronounced or abnormal kyphosis can result in back pain, visible postural changes, and—in some cases—functional limitations such as reduced mobility or breathing difficulty.

At The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital in Aylesbury, we specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of spinal conditions including kyphosis. Our expert-led, multidisciplinary approach offers accurate assessment and personalised care focused on long-term spinal health and function.

What Is Kyphosis?

Kyphosis is characterised by a rounded upper back or “hunchback” appearance. It may result from poor posture, structural abnormalities, spinal degeneration, or congenital issues.

Common forms of kyphosis include:

Postural kyphosis – typically seen in adolescents due to muscle weakness and poor posture
Scheuermann’s kyphosis – a structural deformity involving wedge-shaped vertebrae
Congenital kyphosis – present from birth due to abnormal spinal development
Degenerative kyphosis – more common in older adults due to disc degeneration, osteoporosis, or vertebral fractures
Neuromuscular or traumatic kyphosis – linked to injury or neuromuscular conditions

Symptoms of Kyphosis

Depending on the severity and type of kyphosis, symptoms may include:

A noticeably rounded or stooped posture
Back pain, particularly in the upper spine
Muscle stiffness or fatigue
Reduced mobility or spinal flexibility
Height loss over time
Breathing difficulty in advanced cases
Neurological symptoms (rare, but possible in severe spinal deformity)

Postural kyphosis is typically flexible and may improve with exercise, whereas structural kyphosis is often more rigid and requires medical intervention.

What Causes Kyphosis?

Kyphosis may develop gradually over time or appear during periods of growth. Common causes include:

Age-related spinal changes
Chronic poor posture
Spinal fractures from osteoporosis
Abnormal vertebral development (e.g. Scheuermann’s disease)
Spinal trauma or surgery
Neurological or muscular disorders

Diagnosis at The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital

Our spinal consultants offer detailed evaluations for patients with suspected kyphosis. Diagnosis may involve:

Physical examination and postural assessment
X-rays to measure the curvature (Cobb angle)
MRI (offsite) or CT scans (on site) to evaluate spinal discs, nerves, and soft tissue
Neurological assessment if symptoms suggest nerve involvement

We provide comprehensive on-site diagnostics with access to advanced imaging and rapid reporting.

Treatment Options

Treatment is tailored to the cause and severity of the condition, the patient’s age, and symptom impact.

Non-surgical management may include:

Postural correction exercises and physiotherapy
Back bracing, especially in adolescents with progressive curves
Pain management, including manual therapy and prescribed medication
Postural education and rehabilitation programmes

Surgical options are considered for:

Severe or progressing kyphosis (typically >70–80 degrees)
Kyphosis causing neurological symptoms or organ compression
Procedures may involve spinal correction and fusion surgery

Where complex surgical intervention is required, we coordinate referrals with regional centres while supporting the patient through the full rehabilitation process.

Why Choose The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital?

Comfortable private hospital environment in central Aylesbury
Experienced spinal consultants and multidisciplinary teams
State-of-the-art diagnostics and advanced rehabilitation services
Personalised, patient-focused care
Access to inpatient and outpatient physiotherapy and neurorehabilitation

Arranging To Visit A Private GP

If you are experiencing any signs or symptoms, schedule an appointment with Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital for expert evaluation and treatment.. Make an appointment with one of our private GPs who can refer you to our specialist cardiologists. Appointments are available to everyone and can often be booked for the same day. There is no need to be registered with our The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, or live locally.

If you have insurance which covers a GP visit, we can in most cases invoice the insurer directly. Where you are paying directly, the cost for a 30 minute consultation is £100.

Any additional costs will always be discussed.

Our Resident Neurologist

Dr Weatherall is very welcoming and highly experienced. He offers his patients sound diagnosis and treatment, along with individual care focused on their future health.