Spine curves (kyphosis or lordosis)

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Rounded upper back or swayback

Less common

• Back pain

When to get medical care

Causes

Posture, bone loss.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Teens
• Older adults

Possible complications

• Osteoporosis

Diagnosis

A clinician examines.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• X-ray:

Treatment

Strengthen.

Self-care

• Back and core exercises
• Good posture

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Good posture

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an orthopedist (bone and joint doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Teens: Scheuermann's kyphosis often starts in growth spurts.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Manageable.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Do I need a brace?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Spine curves (kyphosis or lordosis)