APE FACT SHEET
POSTURAL DISORDERS
Kyphosis
DEFINITION:
An exaggerated arch in the normal thoracic curve of the spine.
COMMON CHARACTERISTICS OF KYPHOSIS:
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Rounded shoulder appearance
Forward head posture
MEDICAL CONDITION ASSOCIATED WITH KYPHOSIS:
Scheuermann's Disease or Scheuermann’s Kyphosis: kyphosis (rounding of the
spine) occurs when the front of the upper spine grows at a slower rate than the back
of the spine. The slow growth forms a wedge-shape in the vertebrae causing the
thoracic spine to round forward. Kyphosis is found most commonly between the T7
and T9 vertebrae. The condition commonly occurs in adolescent males during the
later stages of growth. Pain is generally not an issue during the early stages but can
progress as the aging process continues. Although pain is often not great enough to
limit movement, students should be protected from all movements by wearing a
hyperextension brace. an excess kyphotic thoracic spine resulting from inflammation
of bone and/or cartilage. Two or more vertebral bodies may fragment due to the
inflammation in vertebrae. Pain is often not great enough to limit movement but
students should be protected from all movements by wearing a hyperextension
brace.
TEACHING TIPS:
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Provide exercises to increase flexibility of the chest muscles and to strengthen
muscles in the upper back region, such as pull-downs, prone chest raises,
rows, etc.
Encourage increase flexibility of neck musculature by simple neck range of
motion exercises done actively by the student.
Encourage abdominal strengthening exercises.
Inform the student that all stretching exercises should be done pain-free.
Reviewed by Sean Busse, 2012
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Collaborate with the adapted physical educator/physical
therapist/occupational therapist to assist with the student’s physical and
motor development.
SUGGESTED TREATMENT AND EXERCISES:
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Physiotherapy activities can aid in correction and limit progression of the
condition.
Shoulder blade squeezes
Extension over chair
Hamstring stretches
Modified upper back strength and flexibility exercises
Information on this sheet contains only suggested guidelines. Each student must be
considered individually, and in many cases, a physician’s written consent should be
obtained.
Reviewed by Sean Busse, 2012