A common spinal problem among people is Cervical kyphosis as both males and females can suffer from this problem. Cervical kyphosis is a disorder in which the curve of your neck tends to get straight. Research studies have concluded that if the patients have a spinal curvature of 20 degree or less at the neck, then they are prone to cervical kyphosis. The normal cervical lordosis ranges between 31-40 degrees.

Causes of Cervical Kyphosis Various factors responsible for the occurrence of pain in the neck are:

• Congenital

• Infection

• Systemic diseases

• Injury like compression fracture, iatrogenic injury, whiplash etc.

*Degeneration of disk is caused due to wear and tear which weakens the vertebrae. This changes the position of the head, by bending it forward. As a result, there is a change in the shape of the spine and your curved neck becomes straight.

Apart from these, cervical kyphosis can also occur due to improper body posture. The way you sit, sleep, and rest also affects the neck and its shape.

Symptoms of Cervical Kyphosis vary based on the severity. Symptoms vary from minor to severe changes in the shape and size of the spine. The stage may progress to neurological deficits, and also chronic pain. Many times, it gets difficult to move your neck freely.

When the pain is severe, pressure tends to come on spinal cord. This leads to weakness in arms or legs, inability to walk, loss of grip, etc. Depending on the stage, you may lose bladder control and in extreme cases, you may suffer from paralysis as well.

Diagnosis of Cervical Kyphosis

• Cervical kyphosis can be detected and diagnosed on an X-ray, where it becomes easy for doctors to check the shape of the neck. A mirror image of your neck, an x-ray report clearly displays whether the neck is straight or curved. By getting an x-ray done, you will know: 1. Signs of arthritis 2. Degeneration of disc 3. Stenos is 4. Any other problems

• An MRI helps the doctor to check for abnormalities in the soft tissues and nerves.

• Doctors understand the medial history of the patient.

• A physical examination is done.

• The area that has got pain is identified.

• Time duration of pain is recorded.

Treatment Options The traditional method to treat cervical kyphosis is surgery. The type of surgery depends upon the result of the diagnosis. If the case is extremely severe then it should be treated at the earliest. Conservative treatments are not beneficial since results are not satisfactory. If you have a severe case of cervical kyphosis and you don't undergo a surgery, then it is important that a regular medical follow-up should be done.

Treatments other than surgery and conventional treatment and medication, include physical therapy.

Terry O'Brien

Back Trouble UK