Bracing for Hyperkyphosis

By Dr. Tim Fargo, Chiropractor

In a previous blog, I discussed hyperkyphosis which is an increased curve in the mid back that causes people to have a hunchback appearance. This condition can be the result of poor posture over long periods of time, but it can also be the result of genetic and congenital factors. Hyperkyphosis progresses over time and can cause a range of symptoms including upper back pain, neck pain, heart and lung problems, digestive complaints, headaches, and even an increased probability of disability.

Conservative therapies such as chiropractic adjustments, traction, and exercise are often effective. However, there are cases where the curve magnitude and the risk of progression is so high that a more aggressive approach is indicated. Under those circumstances, we will often prescribe a rigid spinal brace to correct hyperkyphosis. The name of this product is “KyphoBrace”. Chiropractic Health and Wellness recommends, fits, and provides this brace product in collaboration with our team in Sydney, Australia

In most adults, the goal with spinal deformities such as hyperkyphosis and scoliosis is to prevent the progression of the curves as the person ages. At Chiropractic Health and Wellness in Edina, Minnesota, we do everything that we can to reduce these deformities and then maintain that reduction over time. Kyphobrace helps us accomplish that goal. Below, you will see pre- and post-x-rays of one of our young patients with hyperkyphosis. In the first x-ray on the left, you can see that the kyphosis is quite large and measures at 87°. To give you a frame of reference, a normal kyphosis is around 44°. The second x-ray on the right shows the patient in a KyphoBrace and you can see a dramatic reduction in the curvature. This curve is measuring 67° in the brace.