Kyphosis in Delray Beach

What is Kyphosis and Who Does It Affect?

Your spine naturally curves to support balance and movement, but when the upper back (thoracic spine) curves forward excessively—beyond 50 degrees—it leads to kyphosis. While some rounding is normal, excessive curvature can cause discomfort, stiffness, and functional limitations.

Kyphosis affects people of all ages, from children going through rapid growth spurts to adults suffering from years of poor posture or spinal degeneration. Our expert team in Delray Beach in Delray Beach has helped hundreds of patients correct their posture, regain mobility, and eliminate pain.

Types of Kyphosis We Treat

• Pediatric Kyphosis:
• • Postural Kyphosis – Common in teens, especially during growth spurts
  • Scheuermann’s Kyphosis – A structural condition affecting up to 8% of children
  • Congenital Kyphosis – Present at birth, requiring early intervention
• Adult Kyphosis:
• • Age-Related (Postural) Kyphosis – Often caused by prolonged sitting or poor posture
  • Degenerative Kyphosis – Linked to arthritis and spinal wear over time
  • Post-Traumatic Kyphosis – Resulting from spinal fractures or injuries

Recognizing the Signs: When to Seek Treatment

Postural and spinal issues can develop at any age, making it important to recognize early warning signs. In children and teens, a rounded upper back that worsens with poor posture, fatigue from sitting upright for long periods, and persistent mild back pain may indicate the need for treatment.

In adults, symptoms such as ongoing upper back pain and stiffness, noticeable rounded shoulders, reduced spinal flexibility, and difficulty standing upright for extended periods suggest potential spinal misalignment or muscular imbalances that should be addressed.

While these symptoms often develop gradually, certain red flags require immediate medical attention. Severe and sudden pain, numbness or tingling in the arms or legs, breathing difficulties, or a loss of balance and coordination could signal a more serious condition that needs urgent evaluation. Seeking treatment early can prevent further complications and improve long-term spinal health.

Preventing Kyphosis: Expert Tips

Proactive habits can help prevent kyphosis and support long-term spinal health.

For children, encouraging active play while limiting screen time promotes natural movement and posture development. Teaching proper backpack-wearing techniques reduces spinal strain, and monitoring posture during growth spurts helps catch early signs of misalignment.

For adults, setting up an ergonomic workspace and taking frequent movement breaks during long periods of sitting can prevent stiffness and poor alignment. Incorporating strength training and flexibility exercises strengthens the core and back muscles, providing better spinal support. Additionally, using proper sleeping positions helps maintain alignment and reduces unnecessary stress on the spine. By integrating these simple yet effective habits into daily life, both children and adults can significantly lower the risk of developing kyphosis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can kyphosis be corrected with physical therapy alone?
Yes—especially for postural kyphosis. The key factors are age, severity of curvature, and consistency with treatment. Our specialists at Posh Physical Therapy create personalized plans to help you achieve the best results.

Is kyphosis the same as scoliosis?
No—kyphosis is a forward spinal curvature, while scoliosis involves a side-to-side curvature. Some patients may have both, and our experts are trained to treat complex cases.

Can untreated kyphosis cause long-term health issues?
Severe cases can lead to chronic pain, breathing difficulties, and even digestive problems. Early treatment prevents complications and improves overall spinal health.