Kyphosis
Kyphosis is an excessive forward rounding of the upper back that can affect posture, mobility, and confidence. It may be postural kyphosis, caused by poor posture and muscle imbalance, or structural kyphosis, which develops from vertebral shape changes such as Scheuermann’s disease, fractures, or osteoporosis. Over time, kyphosis can make it harder to sit or stand upright, contribute to back and neck pain, and even affect breathing in more severe cases. At KIRO, we focus on restoring spinal motion, improving posture tolerance, and building strength so you feel less “pulled forward” and more balanced in daily life.
Why does kyphosis occur?
Kyphosis occurs when the upper back curves forward more than normal. Postural kyphosis often develops from slouching, weak back muscles, or long hours sitting at a desk. Structural kyphosis can result from conditions like Scheuermann’s disease, spinal fractures, or osteoporosis, which change the shape of the vertebrae. Both types limit thoracic motion and place extra strain on the neck and shoulders.
What are the common symptoms with kyphosis?
Common symptoms of kyphosis include upper back ache, stiffness, and fatigue when sitting or standing for long periods. Many people struggle to maintain an upright posture and may also feel neck or shoulder pain from compensation. In more severe cases, kyphosis can reduce breathing capacity due to rib cage restriction.
Who is most at risk for kyphosis?
People most at risk for kyphosis include teenagers during rapid growth spurts, adults who spend long hours hunched over desks or devices, and older adults with osteoporosis or spinal fractures. Occupations that involve forward-leaning postures, such as dental work, hairstyling, or lab work, also increase the risk of developing excessive rounding in the upper back.
How do KIRO doctors treat kyphosis?
At KIRO, treatment for kyphosis begins with a detailed exam to determine whether the curve is postural (flexible) or structural. In the early phase (typically 1–2 visits per week), our chiropractors use precise adjustments and mobilizations to improve thoracic extension and rib motion, making it easier to sit and stand upright.
Your care plan also includes targeted drills such as thoracic extensions over a foam roll, scapular strengthening (prone Y/T/W exercises), chin tucks for deep neck flexor activation, and posterior chain work like hip hinge patterns. We also guide you on workstation setup, posture strategies, and breathing techniques to expand the rib cage without overusing the neck and shoulders.
To track your progress, we perform monthly Nervous System Scans and adjust your plan as needed. Our doctors rotate throughout your care so you benefit from multiple expert perspectives and the highest level of clinical insight.
How long does it take to treat kyphosis?
Most patients with postural kyphosis notice improvement in 4–6 weeks as mobility and posture tolerance increase. The corrective phase, usually another 6–8 weeks, focuses on building endurance and strength for long-term stability, about 12 weeks total. For structural kyphosis, chiropractic care may not change the curve itself, but similar timelines often improve comfort, function, and quality of life.
What are the benefits of chiropractic care for kyphosis?
Benefits of chiropractic care for kyphosis:
Reduces upper back stiffness and pain
Improves upright posture and posture tolerance
Lessens neck and shoulder strain from compensation
Enhances thoracic mobility and breathing mechanics
Builds strength in supporting muscles for long-term stability
Provides conservative, drug-free management tailored to your curve
FAQs
Can chiropractic fix kyphosis?
Chiropractic care cannot fully “fix” or eliminate a kyphosis curve, especially if it is structural. However, it can significantly improve posture tolerance, reduce stiffness, ease pain, and strengthen supporting muscles. For postural kyphosis, consistent adjustments and exercises can make upright posture much easier and more natural.
How can I tell if my kyphosis is postural or structural?
Postural kyphosis is usually flexible and improves when you consciously sit or stand upright, while structural kyphosis is caused by changes in the vertebrae and does not fully correct with posture. Our chiropractors can assess your spine through an exam and, if needed, imaging to confirm which type you have.
Can a back brace help with kyphosis?
A back brace may help in some cases of kyphosis, especially for teenagers with postural habits or during growth phases. For adults, braces are less effective and not usually recommended long term, since they can weaken supporting muscles. Chiropractic care, posture training, and strengthening exercises are more effective for lasting improvement.
Is kyphosis related to osteoporosis?
Yes, osteoporosis can contribute to kyphosis. In older adults, weakened bones may lead to compression fractures in the spine, which increase the forward rounding of the upper back. Chiropractic care, posture strategies, and strength training can help improve comfort and function, while medical management of osteoporosis addresses the underlying bone health.
What exercises can I do to help with kyphosis?
Exercises that strengthen the back and open the chest are most effective for kyphosis. Helpful options include:Thoracic extensions over a foam rollerProne Y/T/W exercises for scapular strengthChin tucks to activate deep neck flexorsHip hinge patterns like Romanian deadlifts for posterior chain strengthDoorway pec stretches to release tight chest musclesThese exercises improve posture control, reduce rounding, and support long-term spinal stability. Ask our chiropractors to guide you through any of these.
Do chiropractic adjustments help with posture?
Yes, chiropractic adjustments help with posture by restoring normal motion in the spine, reducing stiffness, and improving alignment. When the joints of the upper and mid-back move better, supporting muscles don’t have to overwork, making it easier to sit and stand upright with less effort. Combined with strengthening and posture training, adjustments can lead to lasting improvements.
Can I lift weights and exercise with kyphosis?
Yes, you can safely lift weights and exercise with kyphosis, as long as you use proper technique and the right progressions. Strength training, especially hip hinge patterns, back extensions, and scapular strengthening, can actually help improve posture and stability. A chiropractor can guide you on safe movements and modifications to prevent added strain on the upper back.
Does kyphosis cause pain?
Yes, kyphosis can cause upper back pain, stiffness, and fatigue when sitting or standing for long periods. It may also create neck and shoulder discomfort as those areas compensate for the forward curve. In more severe cases, kyphosis can even affect breathing endurance, though many people mainly notice posture fatigue and aches.
Should I see a specialist for kyphosis?
You should see a specialist for kyphosis if your curve is severe, getting worse, or causing symptoms like nerve pain, breathing problems, or fractures. Most mild to moderate cases respond well to chiropractic care, posture correction, and strengthening exercises, but a specialist may be needed for advanced structural changes or osteoporosis-related kyphosis.
How long until I notice a change from my kyphosis treatment?
Many patients with kyphosis notice improvements in posture comfort and mobility within the first few weeks of chiropractic care. With consistent adjustments and targeted exercises, 4–6 weeks often brings measurable change, while 12 weeks of care typically builds lasting endurance and better posture control.
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