Kyphosis
The word “kyphosis” describes a type of curve in the spine. A kyphotic curve is ‘normally’ present in the thoracic spine (the part of the spine in the chest area).
The word “kyphosis” describes a type of curve in the spine. A kyphotic curve is ‘normally’ present in the thoracic spine (the part of the spine in the chest area). A kyphotic curve looks like the letter “C” with the opening of the C pointing towards the front. Though the thoracic spine is supposed to be curved, if the curve in a person’s thoracic spine is more than 40 to 45 degrees, it is considered abnormal – or a spinal deformity.
Normal Anatomy
The thoracic spine naturally has some kyphosis. A kyphotic spinal deformity really means there is too much kyphotic curve in the spine.The thoracic spine is made up of the middle 12 vertebrae of your spine. The normal amount of curve in the thoracic spine is considered to be from 20 to 40 degrees within the entire thoracic spine. There is a range because the amount of “normal” curve varies from person to person
Kyphosis can have varying symptoms and degrees of severity, from minor changes in the shape of back, to severe deformity, nerve problems, and chronic pain.