Menu
Menu
The spine is an integral part of your body that keeps you upright and makes your body functional. The spine’s structure consists of small bones called vertebrae stacked on top of each other, giving your back a curved shape. The spine is connected directly to our body’s skull and runs down to the hip holding up the human torso in place.
The spinal cord that runs through the vertebral column pairs up with the brain to form the central nervous system. The nerves connect to the brain and help transmit necessary information and signals throughout the body. The spine also provides much-needed protection to these nerves, which is why it is a valuable body part.
The human spine has a naturally flattened S shape, but in some cases, it can bend in unnatural ways, which should be a concern. Such curvature of the spine can be medically identified as either scoliosis or kyphosis, which is responsible for causing numbness, pain, and stiffness to your spine. Go through the entire article to learn more about kyphosis vs scoliosis.
Scoliosis is the sideways curve of the spine, generally seen in the growth years of children or early teenagers. It is commonly seen in teenage girls and can arise due to genetics or other physical reasons.
Scoliosis can be identified if they are seen leaning on one side or in case of uneven elevation of shoulders and hips. If these signs surface in teenagers, they should be taken to the doctor for a thorough diagnosis of Scoliosis. In any case, periodic checkup goes a long way toward early detection and proper treatment.
One of the common ways of treating scoliosis in children is through braces. Braces hold the shape of the spine, preventing the condition from worsening. Scoliosis in adults can be treated by constant exercise, physical therapies, and surgeries if things are severe.
Treating scoliosis takes time, and one must wear braces daily until one grows up.
The forward curve of the spine is often connected to the condition called Kyphosis, which can happen at any age. However, this condition is most prevalent in adults and is identified as a degenerative spine condition. Mostly, it damages the ligaments and bones around the spine and demands thorough assessment and treatment.
The causes of Kyphosis in teenagers are still unknown. However, they experience the type of kyphosis called Scheuermann disease which is accompanied by multiple misaligned vertebrae.
Under general circumstances, kyphosis can originate from a spinal injury, osteoporosis, fractures, and slipped disc. The treatment option may vary depending on the cause of kyphosis. In the case of osteoporosis causing kyphosis, you are at risk of a potential fracture, and rigorous treatment is your way out.
Kyphosis is a painful condition when compared to Scoliosis. Scheuermann’s disease can be best treated with physical therapy and braces. If the person’s condition is serious, then your doctor might recommend surgeries for treatment.
By now you should have an insight into kyphosis vs scoliosis. However, if you or your loved ones suffer from the spinal conditions mentioned above, consult Dr. Akhil Tawari. He is an expert orthopedic spine surgeon in the industry capable of treating complex spinal conditions.