Kyphosis is defined as flexion (or dorsal convexity) of the spine as viewed in the sagittal plane. This may be physiologic in the thoracic spine (up to 40^o) or pathologic secondary to trauma or a developmental disorder, Scheuermann's kyphosis.

This teenage male presented with a painless, fixed spinal deformity. His clinical examination is characteristic of Scheuermann's kyphosis. Credit: Dr. L. Davidson

Scheuermann's kyphosis is less common than scoliosis. It presents as a fixed anterior wedging of the thoracic spine. This is a painless condition of adolescence of uncertain etiology. It is differentiated from postural roundback by noting a sharp saggital plane curve on forward flexion. This is not correctable by shoulder hyperextension. X-rays are diagnostic, showing decreased anterior height of several adjacent vertebrae (at least 5o wedging of three adjacent vertebrae; vertebral endplates are typically uneven). Treatment with bracing or surgery may be required in severe cases