Kyphosis in Children - Kyphosis Treatment in Dubai

Kyphosis refers to an excessive forward rounding of the upper back, giving it a humped or slouched appearance. While a slight curve in the spine is normal, kyphosis occurs when the curve becomes exaggerated, often exceeding 50 degrees. This condition can affect children and adolescents, and it is important to diagnose and treat it early to avoid potential complications. At Fakeeh University Hospital in Dubai, we offer specialized Kyphosis Treatment in Dubai services to improve your spinal health and overall well-being.

Symptoms of Kyphosis

The most obvious sign of kyphosis is a visible rounding or hunching of the upper back. Other symptoms may include:

• Back pain or discomfort, particularly during physical activities
• Fatigue or muscle weakness
• Stiffness in the spine
• In more severe cases, difficulty breathing

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult a spine specialist.

Causes of Kyphosis

Kyphosis can result from various factors, including:

• Poor Posture: Often referred to as postural kyphosis, this is common in adolescents and adults with prolonged sitting or improper posture.
• Congenital Disorders: Present at birth due to abnormal spinal development.
• Osteoporosis: A condition that weakens bones, leading to vertebral fractures.
• Scheuermann’s Disease: A condition that causes wedge-shaped vertebrae.
• Infections and Tumors: Rare causes that require immediate medical attention.

‍ Types of Kyphosis

There are three common types of kyphosis that can develop in children:

1. Postural Kyphosis:
   This is the most common form, usually related to poor posture. It is flexible, meaning the curve straightens when the child stands tall or lies down. This type rarely causes pain or serious complications and can often be corrected through physical therapy and exercises that focus on strengthening the back and improving posture.
2. Scheuermann’s Kyphosis:
   Scheuermann's kyphosis is a more rigid type, often seen in adolescents during periods of rapid growth. In this case, the vertebrae in the spine wedge forward, causing a sharper, more noticeable curve. Children with this type of kyphosis may experience back pain, stiffness, and, in more severe cases, breathing difficulties. Treatment varies depending on the severity but may include bracing or, in more extreme cases, surgery.
3. Congenital Kyphosis:
   This occurs when the spine fails to develop properly before birth. Some vertebrae may be malformed or fused together, leading to a more severe curve as the child grows. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential in managing congenital kyphosis, and surgical intervention is often required to correct the spinal deformity.

Diagnosis and Treatment

• Kyphosis is typically diagnosed through a physical exam and imaging tests like X-rays. Treatment depends on the severity and type of kyphosis. For mild cases, physical therapy and exercises to strengthen the back muscles are often enough to improve posture and reduce discomfort. A brace may be recommended for children whose spine is still growing to prevent further curvature.
• In more severe cases, particularly with Scheuermann’s or congenital kyphosis, surgery may be necessary to correct the curvature and stabilize the spine.

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Life after the operation

Your child can live his/her life normally after both methods. The modern instrumentation allows full ambulation directly on the first postoperative surgical day without the need for any braces or corsets. The hospital stay is around 5 days. He can re-visit his school 3 to 4 weeks after the surgery. Contact sports could be continued 6 months after the operation. The operation does not cause any restriction in job selection afterwards when the children are grown up and do not have any disadvantage regarding fertility and pregnancy.

Prognosis

With early detection and appropriate management, most patients with scoliosis can lead active, healthy lives. For more severe cases, modern surgical techniques can greatly improve both function and appearance

When to See a Specialist

If your child shows signs of kyphosis or complains of persistent back pain, it's important to seek medical advice. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the condition from worsening and ensure your child maintains good spinal health.

Preventing Kyphosis

• While some causes of kyphosis are unavoidable, adopting preventive measures can reduce your risk:
• Maintain good posture while sitting and standing.
• Incorporate spine-strengthening exercises into your routine.
• Ensure a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to prevent osteoporosis.
• Regularly visit a spine specialist for check-ups.

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of kyphosis, don’t delay seeking expert care. Schedule an appointment with our spine specialists at Fakeeh University Hospital today to regain your posture and comfort.

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