Kyphotic deformity of cervical lordosis: what is it and how to treat? Kyphotic placement of the cervical spine Kyphotic placement of the cervical spine

The neck is the most vulnerable part of the back, which is easily injured. It is susceptible to various kinds of degenerative processes and distortions. Cervical kyphosis is a rare condition in which the spine becomes rounded. What is known about him? How does it manifest itself and can it be prevented?

What it is?

By about two months of age, the baby begins to hold his head up. At this point, the cervical curvature of the spine (lordosis) is formed. It is necessary to reduce the load while walking and provide shock absorption.

Under the influence of pathological factors, the spinal column in the neck area is deformed. A strong deflection disrupts the anatomical structure of the back, leading to defects in the nerve endings and blood vessels.

Cervical kyphosis can occur in children and adults. Causes can be congenital or acquired. The disease can cause a person to stop moving completely. This is why treatment should be started as soon as possible.

The pathology causes increased blood pressure, discomfort in the back, impaired motor activity and sensitivity, as well as frequent headaches and dizziness. Changes in the location of the vertebrae can be the result of injuries and pathologies of the spine or congenital anomalies. Kyphosis of the cervical spine can cause hearing impairment, visual disturbances, and hypoxia (oxygen starvation) of the brain.

For your information! In the neck area there are nerve endings that are responsible for the functioning of the brain, musculoskeletal system and internal organs.

Even if only a few vertebrae are affected, the shape of the entire cervical spine changes. The intervertebral discs are the first to suffer. Uneven load leads to the formation of hernias.

The disease can occur in a very mild form, not accompanied by virtually any symptoms. However, this does not mean that the problem can be ignored.

For treatment, a whole range of therapeutic measures is drawn up, including medications, physiotherapy, therapeutic exercises and correction with orthopedic devices. It will not be possible to quickly get rid of the problem. However, if you follow your doctor's recommendations, you can achieve good results.

Deformation changes against the background of degeneration of vertebral tissue are irreversible. In an adult, it is only possible to stop the process and alleviate the condition with the help of symptomatic treatment.

The disease is a posterior deflection of the neck

Provoking factors

No one is immune from cervical kyphosis. It can be diagnosed in absolutely any person, regardless of gender and age. In general, the causes of curvature can be divided into congenital and acquired.

Congenital

Congenital kyphosis of the neck is very rare. It usually develops due to defects in the formation of vertebrae during prenatal development. Let us highlight the main reasons for its appearance:

• intrauterine anomalies;
• damage to the cervical vertebrae during childbirth;
• hereditary predisposition.
• lack of folic acid in a woman in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Purchased

Acquired causes include:

• age-related changes accompanied by the destruction of cartilage and bone tissue;
• vertebrogenic (vertebral) pathologies: scoliosis, osteochondrosis, osteoporosis, spondylosis;
• a sedentary lifestyle or, conversely, increased stress on the spine;
• back injuries;
• rickets, cerebral palsy;
• hernias, protrusions;
• improperly organized workplace;
• violation of metabolic processes;
• complication after back surgery;
• infectious lesions, for example, spinal tuberculosis;
• oncological processes.

Classification

Kyphotic deformity of the cervical spine can be arched or angular. In the first case, the curvature has the shape of a highly elongated arc. With angular kyphosis, the deformed vertebrae form an acute angle. Over time, if the pathology is not treated, a hump appears.

Depending on the etiological sign, that is, the causes of occurrence, pathological kyphosis of the cervical spine is:

• Paralytic. Occurs as a result of muscle paralysis after cerebral palsy, polio, etc.
• Infectious. Occurs after suffering from brucellosis and tuberculosis of the spine.
• Rachitic. Develops against the background and softness of bone tissue during rickets.
• Degenerative-dystrophic. Occurs as a result of destructive vertebrogenic pathologies.
• Compression. Appears against the background of a compression fracture.
• Postural. The cause is stretched ligaments of the spinal column. As a rule, it develops in women under thirty years of age.
• Postoperative. It occurs as a result of an unsuccessful operation, as well as when medical recommendations are ignored during the rehabilitation period.
• Senile. It is the result of age-related changes in the body.

The disease occurs in four stages. The first two of them can be done without surgery.

Characteristic signs

Cervical kyphosis is accompanied by a large number of symptoms, but in the initial stages of development the disease is difficult to diagnose. This is explained by the fact that this type of curvature is not accompanied by specific symptoms. Kyphosis is usually detected only when visual changes appear.

It is simply impossible to notice an unnatural bend in the cervical spine. Looking at a person, a rounded spine catches your eye. At the same time, the head and shoulders are slightly lowered forward. When you try to turn your head, a strong crunching sound occurs.

Due to damage to the vestibular apparatus, problems with coordination appear. Kyphosis affects the trigeminal nerve structures, causing the facial skin to become less sensitive. Memory loss, frequent fainting, pressure surges are not all that patients with kyphosis have to face.

On a note! Symptoms may not appear for several years after the onset of the disease.

Signs of cervical kyphosis are conventionally divided into the following categories:

• extravertebral;
• vertebral;
• compression myelopathy;
• myofascial.

Extravertebral

Patients are bothered by pain in the occipital part of the head, which is a consequence of impaired blood microcirculation, as well as an unnatural position of the head. Cervical kyphosis is accompanied by chronic brain hypoxia, that is, insufficient oxygen supply. This provokes nausea. Also, as a result of spasm of blood vessels, blood pressure may increase. This is another reason for attacks of nausea. Patients experience loss of coordination and dizziness.

If you pay attention to the features of the anatomical structure of the cervical spine, you will see that it smoothly passes into the base of the brain. The vital centers of the human body are concentrated in this place. That is why, against the background of cervical kyphosis, patients can experience serious visual and hearing impairments.

Sharp pain appears, similar to an electric shock

Vertebral

Motor activity with cervical kyphosis is sharply limited. When you try to sharply turn your head to the side or throw it back, severe pain and dizziness occur. In some cases, patients even lose their balance, and visual images in the form of floating flies appear before their eyes.

Compressive myelopathy

Cervical kyphosis inevitably leads to disorders of the central nervous system. Compression of the vertebral artery leads to a number of symptoms:

• the affected part of the back becomes numb and loses sensitivity;
• muscles atrophy;
• the skin of the hands becomes cold and pale;
• muscles contract convulsively;
• the protective reaction to pain and temperature changes decreases;
• hands begin to tremble;
• When the facial nerve is damaged, paresis of the facial muscles develops.

Myofascial

The muscles at the site of curvature are constantly in a tense state. Because of this, the pain syndrome becomes permanent. When palpating the affected area, compacted soft tissue structures are felt. The neck muscles are in a state of hypertonicity. This also affects your overall well-being. Patients experience weakness and chronic fatigue.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of kyphosis begins with collecting information about the patient and medical history. Next, the specialist conducts a visual examination and palpates the affected area of ​​the spinal column.

A detailed study of changes in the spinal column allows you to make an accurate diagnosis. For this purpose, radiography is performed in a lateral projection. MRI allows you to determine the angle of curvature of the spine and changes in the structure of cartilage tissue. If magnetic resonance imaging cannot be performed, myelography with contrast is prescribed. To exclude tumor processes, ultrasound diagnostics is performed. Angiography can reveal compression of the vertebral artery.

Treatment tactics

Cervical kyphosis cannot be cured instantly! The course of treatment in some cases can last more than one month. It is necessary to combat the disease in a comprehensive manner, using several methods at once.

Conservative treatment of cervical kyphosis includes the following:

• massage treatments, including manual therapy;
• wearing orthopedic products;
• physiotherapy;
• symptomatic drug therapy;
• Spa treatment.

Exercises

Therapeutic exercise will help get rid of pain and tone your muscles. Exercise therapy even improves blood microcirculation in the body.

The load during exercise is determined by the doctor individually for each patient. This depends on the severity of kyphosis and overall health indicators.

To treat kyphosis, exercises must be done every day. Before doing the main complex, you should warm up. This will make the exercises easier and also prevent muscle and ligament damage.

Therapeutic exercises for kyphosis should include static and dynamic exercises. Together, they help restore the physiological curve of the spine and have a positive effect on muscle tone.

Doctors prescribe four main categories of exercises for cervical kyphosis:

• Lungs. Aimed at relaxing muscles.
• Dosed. Eliminate resistance.
• Power. Necessary for strengthening muscle structure and restoring proper blood circulation.
• Passive. They load the body only to a small extent.

Exercise therapy for the cervical spine is performed together with a gymnastic stick. Let's consider an effective set of exercises:

• Warm up with a breathing exercise. Stand straight with your feet together. As you inhale, raise your arms and tilt your head back a little. As you exhale, smoothly take the starting position.
• Do squats while holding a stick.
• Stand up straight with your hands and stick behind your back. Then repeat the first breathing exercise. Don't forget that you can't throw the stick. There is no need to try to raise your arms too high.
• Get down on your knees, bend your elbows, and place your palms on the floor. Pull your shoulders back and lift your head slightly. In this position, crawl a distance equal to thirty steps.
• Lie on your back, resting your elbows. As you inhale, lift your chest and lean forward. Exhaling, return to the starting position.
• Roll over and lie on your stomach. Place the stick at the level of the shoulder blades. As you inhale, bend back. Try to reach the stick with your head as far as possible. Next, exhale and return to the starting position.
• Turn onto your back again. Place the gymnastics stick above your head. Spread your legs and reach forward with your hands, holding the equipment.

However, it is worth remembering that physical therapy exercises can cause serious harm. The exercises should not be performed in the following cases:

• mental disorders;
• infectious pathologies;
• blood pressure surges;
• high body temperature;
• cardiovascular pathologies.

If you experience back pain during exercise, stop exercising. Also, you should not continue physical therapy if the disease progresses.

Traction

The essence of traction, regardless of its type, is to provide short-term or long-term efforts aimed at reducing muscle spasm. Traction allows you to put the vertebrae in their place. As a result, the spinal column lengthens. Of course, it will not be possible to achieve significant results in one session. Up to twenty procedures will be required.

Only competent traction of the spine will achieve excellent results, otherwise serious complications are possible. Therefore, it is best to entrust such a procedure to a specialist and not self-medicate.

Traction can be performed using dry or underwater methods. First, let's talk about the first variety. Dry stretching can be horizontal or vertical. The spine can be stretched using its own weight. Additional weights are also applied.

Dry extraction is carried out on special tables or couches. The equipment helps to evenly stretch all parts of the spine. On the surface of the couch there are smooth ribs that exactly follow the shape of the ridge. During the session they begin to move apart. As a rule, the procedure does not cause any discomfort. The ribs with which the tables are equipped provide a gentle massage. This relaxes the muscles and prepares them for the upcoming traction.

Dry traction of the spine is contraindicated in the following cases:

• inflammatory processes;
• oncological neoplasms;
• osteoporosis;
• stones in the kidneys;
• epilepsy;
• vertebral instability;
• violation of spinal circulation.

Underwater hoods have become increasingly popular. It is simple and highly effective. Traction in this case is carried out under the influence of warm water. Underwater traction relaxes cramped neck muscles, restores blood circulation and increases the space between the vertebrae.

During the procedure, the patient is fixed to a special stand and immersed in a pool or bath. The belts are then tightened, which creates traction.

The procedure is contraindicated for obesity, heart failure, spinal injuries, and cauda equina syndrome. Traction is prescribed strictly by a doctor.

Orthopedic products

In this article we will talk about Chance's collar. The product supports the neck, improves blood flow and relieves muscles. It prevents tilting and rotational movement of the affected area of ​​the spine. The bandage provides peace of mind to the neck.

It is important to choose the correct size of the corset, otherwise it will not function fully and may even lead to nausea, vomiting and loss of consciousness.

An incorrectly selected bandage will cause headaches and dizziness.

Doctors do not recommend constantly wearing an orthopedic product. This can lead to muscle atrophy. Two to three hours a day is enough. You should purchase the bandage at a pharmacy or specialty store. It is unacceptable to fall asleep with your collar on.

Manual therapy

The procedure involves providing a therapeutic effect using only the hands of a specialist. It helps eliminate biomechanical disorders of the spine that cause pain and limitation of motor activity. The specialist releases the blocked joint, “reducing” it into place. This relieves compression from blood vessels and nerve endings, causing relief.

One session of manual therapy will not be enough. About ten procedures will be required. It is unacceptable to conduct a session without an accurate diagnosis. Before prescribing the procedure, the specialist must ensure that there are no contraindications. Manual therapy is prohibited in the following cases:

• pregnancy period;
• tumors;
• inflammatory and infectious processes;
• arterial hypertension;
• hyperthermia (high temperature).

The chiropractor always starts with soft methods of influence, gradually moving to more severe manipulations, during which the impact is exerted on bones and cartilage. The session is accompanied by a noisy crunching sound, which usually frightens patients.

The cervical region is the most delicate part of the spinal column, so manual manipulation should only be entrusted to an experienced doctor. In this zone the vertebrae are smaller than in other sections. Damage to blood vessels and nerve endings in this area can trigger the development of ischemic stroke, ligament rupture and even fractures.

Operation

The following reasons are given for going to the operating table:

• ineffectiveness of conservative treatment;
• back pain that is not relieved by analgesics;
• the occurrence of neurological symptoms;
• kyphosis due to injury;
• aesthetic defect in the form of a hump on the back;
• presence of operable oncological formation;
• congenital kyphosis;
• involvement of internal organs in the pathological process;
• the appearance of hernias.

On a note! The indication for surgery is the rapid progression of the cervical curve to grade 3 or 4.

Surgery for kyphosis is risky and technically challenging. The essence of the procedure is to install special metal plates that hold the organ in an anatomically correct position.

Main thoughts

Cervical kyphosis is not that common. The pathology is characterized by curvature of the vertebrae of the spine. The deformity can be congenital or acquired. In the first case, the development of kyphosis is associated with intrauterine developmental anomalies. Among the acquired causes, the leading place is occupied by vertebrogenic pathologies, injuries, and a sedentary lifestyle. The main symptom is the appearance of a hump in the neck area. This is not just an aesthetic problem. Over time, other organs begin to suffer. Particularly critical is hypoxia, in which little oxygen reaches the brain. Spinal deformity is visible to the naked eye. Over time, a hump appears. Patients experience headaches, dizziness, neck numbness, and hand tremors. The sooner you start treatment, the greater the chances of a speedy recovery. Therapeutic exercises, massage, orthoses, and physiotherapy are effective. Medications can help cope with pain. If, despite conservative treatment, the disease progresses, surgery may be required.

Video on the topic

The spinal column has a certain curved shape, which is formed in the first year of a child’s life. It has two kyphosis - anatomical curves in the thoracic and sacral spine - and two lordoses - also anatomically and physiologically determined curves in the cervical and lumbar spine. Kyphosis is the bending of the column backwards when standing facing the person, lordosis is the bending anteriorly. However, for a number of reasons, physiological curves can turn into pathological ones.

Causes

Of course, the thoracic and lumbar regions are most often affected. The majority of the world's population faces these problems. But sometimes the cervical spine is also subject to deformation. Kyphosis of the cervical spine can develop both in adulthood and in early childhood. Moreover, the latter is much more dangerous for life.

In childhood, the mechanism of occurrence of this pathology is the following reasons:

1. Lack of vitamin D, which presupposes the development of rickets, one of the manifestations of which is deformation of the vertebral bodies, a decrease in their height anteriorly.
2. Birth injuries. Manifestations of birth injuries can be very diverse, including compression of the cervical vertebrae.
3. Torticollis. This is a disease that is a spasm of the sternocleidomastoid muscles (slow hyperkinesis), leading to deformation of not only the neck, but even the facial skull.

Vitamin D deficiency is a common cause of spinal deformity in children.

In adults, kyphosis of the cervical spine can be observed with the following pathologies:

1. Osteoporosis. Every person over thirty or forty years old has this problem, in the absence, of course, of preventive treatment. Osteoporosis, like rickets, changes the vertebrae, only if growth changes in childhood, then in adulthood compression fractures form, which patients sometimes do not pay attention to and are not treated in a timely manner.
2. Spinal injuries. The same compression fractures as in osteoporosis, but they occur in people who are in full health.
3. Paralysis of the neck muscles. They are extremely rare in isolated form. Occurs during cerebral strokes. The patient's head seems to hang, constantly tilted forward, which, over time, changes the bone structures, adapting to the new state.
4. Infectious diseases that penetrate the skeletal system. Most often, bones are affected by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which literally eats them away, leaving cavities inside the vertebral bodies, disrupting the strength of bone tissue, which again leads to compression fractures.

Thus, it can be noted that in fact there are only three reasons for kyphotic deformation of the cervical spine: compression fractures of the vertebral bodies, their abnormal growth and changes in configuration in adulthood.

How does pathological kyphosis manifest?

Unfortunately, the disease manifests itself not only as a cosmetic defect. Constant companions of patients with this problem are:

• headache, often starting in the occipital region and spreading to the entire head;
• crawling sensation, numbness in the neck, back of the head;
• dizziness, especially worse when looking up or throwing back the head. Dizziness leading to fainting or falling without loss of consciousness (drop attacks);
• pain in the neck - pulling, aching, not allowing you to relax;
• problems with the upper extremities - numbness, burning, decreased strength, tingling, pain.

Neck pain with kyphotic deformity may be constant

All these symptoms arise due to compression of the vertebral artery by deformed vertebrae (the vertebral artery in the neck passes in the bone canal formed by sections of the vertebrae) and, as a consequence, lack of oxygen to the brain, as well as due to compression of the roots of the spinal cord (in severe cases, itself) .

With a mild degree of deformation, symptoms may be minimal, they may decrease or even disappear for a while under favorable living conditions. But with age, there is a tendency to increase their number and severity.

Treatment

Since the disease relates, for the most part, to surgical and traumatological pathologies, the treatment of kyphosis of the cervical spine is the prerogative of neurosurgeons and orthopedic traumatologists. In mild cases that do not require surgical intervention, treatment is prescribed by a neurologist.

Surgical treatment methods include the installation of various metal structures that fasten the vertebrae together in the correct position. The operation is quite safe, with a minimum of possible unpleasant consequences, which relate more to doctors’ mistakes, and not to complications of the procedure itself.

But there are many more methods of conservative therapy:

1. Exercise therapy or gymnastics. It should be prescribed by a physical therapist, but simple exercises that strengthen the neck muscles can be performed independently. In addition, physical therapy also includes swimming in the pool.
2. Massage . In this case, massage is indicated not only for children suffering from torticollis, but also for any other patient. With the help of massage, you can not only relax the affected muscles, but also, on the contrary, give them tone and increase your ability to train. In addition, a skilled massage therapist can make the spine itself more mobile.
3. Manual therapy. Without going into details, this type of treatment is similar to the previous one, but it is much more effective if you need to achieve results as quickly as possible.
4. Acupuncture. With its help you can both reduce muscle tone and increase it.
5. Use of orthoses(corsets). Cervical kyphosis resulting from compression fractures responds well to treatment with a position that is fixed with special corsets of varying rigidity.
6. Taking tablet medications calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D and other microelements are indicated in any case, but their maximum effectiveness is observed in cases of vitamin D hypovitaminosis and osteoporosis. In other cases, the appropriateness of prescribing these medications can be questioned.

It is worth noting that the sooner a person begins treatment, the more successful it will be. So, with the existing torticollis, only surgery can help - transplanting the tendons of the spasmodic muscles to a new place. And in the early stages of the disease, complete compensation for the patient’s condition is possible.

Spinal deformity can manifest itself in different ways: partially or completely, with different types of curvature, be congenital or acquired. Depending on the causes of the problem, the degree of complexity of the situation, and the area of ​​damage, correction using conservative methods or surgical treatment is prescribed.

Often such changes lead to curvature of the spine, displacement of spinal discs, and poor posture.

Types of deformation

The following main types of curvature are distinguished:

• Lordosis;
• Kyphosis;
• Scoliosis.

Scoliotic deformity of the spine is expressed by a sideways displacement of the vertebrae. The most common is scoliotic deformity of the thoracic spine. This type of change mainly manifests itself at school age. Scoliosis deformity can be s, z and c shaped. The latter is much more common than others and represents a right- or left-sided curvature.

Lordosis– forward deviation of the spinal axis. The most common deformity is the cervical and lumbar spine, less often combined with thoracic kyphosis. With lumbar lordosis, the mobility of the lower extremities may be limited. Curvatures, especially strong ones, affect the functioning of internal organs: lungs, kidneys and heart.

Kyphosis characterized by a backward bending of the axis and has two development options. It is arched and angular. Kyphotic deformity of the cervical spine is extremely rare, since the natural direction of curvature in this part is lordosis.

Also, different groups of changes in the shape of the spine can be combined, for example, kyphoscoliotic spinal deformity. That is, the displacement occurs in several directions at once. Curvatures are often localized specifically in the sacral region, since the load on this segment of the spine is quite serious.

Another type of change in the normal shape of the spine is spondylosis. It is caused by the proliferation of bone tissue with the formation of processes, spines, and narrowing of the spinal canal.

Compression deformity of the spine occurs as a result of strong impacts and other loads. This mainly occurs when falling and hitting the head. As a result, the length of the spinal column decreases, and compression of the dural sac of the cervical spine may increase.

Symptoms

The sensations of patients are different and depend on the type, degree of curvature and its location.

• When the violation just begins, and there are no changes in well-being; it can be determined by stooping, raised shoulders, different heights of the shoulder blades. This is the first degree of curvature.
• Second degree The formation of an angle of 10 to 25 degrees between the vertebrae is considered. In this case, there is a difference in the tone of the muscles on the back, pain appears and physical activity begins to bring discomfort.
• The next degree is the third– accompanied by an increase in the angle of curvature to 50 degrees. This deformation is visible to the naked eye; it is noticeable in the photo when a person is wearing thick clothing. With such a curvature, even the smallest loads cause serious discomfort; discomfort and pain do not stop even at rest.
• Quadruple degree- the heaviest. It brings not only pain, but also has a sharply negative effect on the functioning of internal organs. The lungs, stomach, liver and heart cannot function properly and the body experiences severe stress.

Depending on the location of the changes, the symptoms also change. If the cervical spine is curved, this leads to headaches. The lumbar region affects the functions of the reproductive system, motor and sensory disorders in the legs.

If the patient suffers from wedge-shaped deformity, this change is accompanied by severe pain, shortness of breath, decreased lung capacity, high fatigue, and headaches.

Why are spinal deformities dangerous?

If distortions appear, it is worth taking measures to eliminate them. Otherwise, the consequences can be extremely unpleasant. Over time, hernias may appear, knees and other joints may suffer. In addition, the more serious the degree of curvature, the stronger the pain and discomfort during movement and at rest.

Also, a curved spine has a negative impact on the functioning of internal organs and the body as a whole. The chest often becomes smaller in volume, constricting the heart and lungs. In addition, disturbances can affect breathing, provoke congestion in the lungs, pneumonia and bronchitis of varying severity.

The genitourinary and digestive systems suffer from distortions. In women, this can result in infertility and various neoplasms. In men – in decreased sexual function and other unpleasant changes.

It is also worth noting the emergence of psychological barriers and even depression due to changing appearance and the inability to communicate with the world as before.

Diagnostic methods

At the initial examination. Next, the patient is sent for an x-ray and after this the doctor can make an accurate diagnosis, determining the location and severity of changes in the spine. If necessary, an examination using MRI and ultrasound of internal organs may be prescribed.

Treatment methods

Treatment usually takes time and patience. Different therapeutic options can be used individually or in combination. Usually these are combinations of medication, physiotherapy and manual treatment. If conservative methods are powerless, the problem is eliminated surgically.

For curvatures of the first and second degree, it is usually possible to do without surgery. Patients do exercises, wear corsets, and eat a healthy diet. Exercises in the pool are effective. Exercise therapy and a swimming pool are also excellent prevention of spinal diseases.

Surgery is needed for third and fourth degree changes.

Price

You can learn more about the cost of treatment by visiting a specialist. Only after making an accurate diagnosis and determining the course of treatment can we talk about its cost. In order not to harm your health, you should only contact well-proven specialists. Otherwise, even minor violations can develop into irreparable health problems.

Make an appointment with a specialist

For the treatment to be successful and give the expected effect, choose professional doctors from a reputable clinic. It is the Central Clinical Hospital of the Russian Academy of Sciences in Moscow that has an excellent reputation. Vertebrologists at the Central Clinical Hospital of the Russian Academy of Sciences successfully restore the health of many patients with various forms of diseases.

The spine is the most important center of the body, on which health, longevity, and the ability to live a full life free from pain and discomfort completely depend. If you value your health, do not delay your visit to the doctor. Call the numbers listed on the website and make an appointment online. Take a step towards excellent health now!

Each person has several curves in the spine that serve as shock absorption. In cases where the deflection in the cervical spine straightens, the doctor diagnoses kyphosis of the cervical spine. This deviation is a pathological curvature of the vertebrae; it is quite rare.

Initially, kyphosis is considered to be a backward bending of the neck. Such a condition cannot be ignored, since it can lead to disruption of the functioning of a large number of vital organs, such as the brain, which experiences oxygen starvation during the development of pathological kyphosis of the cervical spine. Kyphosis can develop in a person of any gender and age. How to correct the pathology?

Kyphosis is divided into several types:

1. Paralytic is diagnosed when muscles are unable to contract due to damage to the brain. Children suffering from cerebral palsy are susceptible to paralytic kyphosis.
2. Degenerative-dystrophic occurs in case of disruption of blood flow to the vertebra, as well as biochemical metabolic processes.
3. Rachitic is observed due to a lack of D-vitamin in the body at the stage of bone structure formation.
4. An infectious type of kyphotic deformity of the cervical spine can be a consequence of spondylitis or tuberculosis.
5. The senile type of kyphosis is more common in the elderly, since there is involution of the spinal column.

Kyphosis is also classified depending on its origin:

• Pathological cervical kyphosis;
• Physiological.

The following types of disease are determined by the age of the patients:

Childhood cervical kyphosis manifests itself in muscle or bone form. Muscular form is a consequence of a serious illness or defective physical development. The bone form is the result of damage to the vertebral bodies, a systemic disease.

Degrees of the disease

There are 3 degrees of neck kyphosis, regardless of type:

1. Minimum – the angle of curvature is 30 degrees maximum;
2. The second is 30-60 degrees;
3. The third is 60 degrees.

Causes

People of all age groups (from infants to the elderly) may experience cervical kyphosis in the form of muscle weakness, inability to maintain the spine in the desired shape, and bone diseases. It is for this reason that the disease can be either congenital or acquired.

Congenital causes of the disease:

1. A congenital or hereditary disease is characterized by genotypic transmission of the properties of dominant inheritance. This means that several generations have anomalies in the development of the anterior vertebral sections.
2. Anomalies of infant intrauterine development, injuries of the newborn after childbirth. Rickets at an early age leads to kyphotic deformity of the cervical spine.
3. Weakening of the ligaments and muscles of the skeleton, excessive softness of the vertebral bodies.

Acquired causes of the disease:

• Changes in the structure of intervertebral discs and vertebral bodies due to age;
• Advanced forms of spinal disease (spondylosis, osteoporosis, osteochondrosis);
• Damage to the spinal ligaments, muscles or spine due to injury;
• Scoliosis and uneven physical activity (insufficient or excessive exercise);
• Infectious diseases or inflammatory processes in the strongest manifestation;
• Tuberculosis;
• Tumors in the soft tissue or spine area.

Symptoms

Signs of kyphosis are represented by the following symptoms:

1. Decreased neck mobility;
2. Crepitation of the vertebrae of the neck when turning the head;
3. Headaches concentrated in the occipital region (pinched vertebral artery);
4. Decreased hearing and visual ability, impaired coordination (damaged vestibular apparatus);
5. Painful sensations resemble electric shock (Lhermitte phenomenon);
6. Disappearance of the flexion-extension reflex in the elbow joint;
7. Decreased sensitivity of the facial skin (damage to the ternary nerve);
8. Frequent dizziness, fainting and darkening of the eyes;
9. Impaired memory, thinking, attention and cognitive processes;
10. Changes in blood pressure;
11. Numbness of the hands and feeling of cold, nervous tics of the fascia, general muscle weakness;
12. Peripheral or central paralysis, urination disorder;
13. Formation of a cervical hump and the appearance of stoop;
14. Problems with the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.

Diagnostics

It is especially difficult to diagnose the disease in the early stages. Only modern methods can confirm the diagnosis:

• Myelography with contrast;
• Two-projection radiography of the SHOP.

In addition to these methods, you should also:

Treatment

Any treatment for kyphosis of the cervical spine must be based on combating the cause that provoked the problem:

Thus, the main methods of treating kyphosis are physical therapy, massage, manual therapy, and physical therapy. Surgery may be required only if the disease progresses and there are no alternatives to eliminate negative symptoms using conservative methods.

Complications and consequences

Pathological kyphosis of the cervical spine occurs as a symptom that precedes serious problems.

Ignoring the manifestations of the disease entails complications. The consequences are:

• Displacement of the ribs and, as a result, discomfort when bending and moving;
• Pulmonary failure;
• Constant numbness of the limbs, problems in the work of the arms and legs.

Also deformity, complete paralysis, as the most serious complications caused by neck deformation.

Prevention

To prevent the disease, the following treatment and prophylactic methods are used:

1. This exercise should be performed sitting or standing, paying special attention to correct posture. Shoulders should be turned back, back straight, hands on the belt. This is followed by pulling the head forward. Make sure your chin moves parallel to the floor, thereby stretching your neck muscles. Then we take a deep breath, and as we exhale we move the neck back, trying to “press” the head into the neck. It must be taken into account that the neck should not be bent during the exercise. Number of repetitions: 5-8.
2. Turns the head left and right. When making turns, you need to exhale slowly, holding your breath as you exhale. In this case, you need to pull your head towards your shoulders, without lowering your chin down, keeping it horizontal. Exhaling, we turn our head to the starting position. Repeat the turn in the other direction while inhaling. Number of repetitions: 5-8.
3. As you inhale, tilt your head forward. You should try to lower your chin as low as possible, closer to your chest. Then we return our head to the starting position and, as we exhale, slowly change the tilt of our head back. It is necessary to perform the exercise carefully and slowly, without causing pain. Number of repetitions: 5-8.
4. We perform head turns, slowly, to the sides, with inhalation. It is important to try to “examine your back” with your head slightly tilted down. The exercise should be performed slowly, without straining, stretching the muscles. Number of repetitions: 5-8.
5. The head should drop back and down 45 degrees, while the shoulders and back should remain level. Then we make turns in different directions, “looking at the sky.” Number of repetitions: 5-8.
6. We tilt our head to the side, at the end we freeze for a while and begin to stretch the top of our head slightly up and to the side. The head should not be pressed against the shoulder. As you exhale, turn your head to the starting position. Repeat on the other side. Number of repetitions: 5-8.
7. We press the head towards the neck, turn to the side, stretch the neck, move the chin along the horizon in the opposite direction, pull the chin back into the neck and turn to the starting position. Number of repetitions: 5-8 times in each direction.
8. This exercise must be performed slowly and smoothly. Circular movements of the head with fixation in 4 intermediate positions at each shoulder, back and forth. During each fixation, you need to stretch your neck and stretch its muscles. After a full circle, we change the direction of movement.

These exercises are performed within 10-15 minutes and are quite simple. Over time, the number of repetitions and their duration can be increased. When performed, the neck muscles are stretched. These exercises help after just a month of daily repetitions.

Kyphosis is the normal anatomical curvature of the spine. However, an increase in the angle of this formation can lead not only to discomfort in the body, but also to a noticeable defect in posture - a hump. And if it is not difficult to imagine this pathology in the thoracic region, then how does kyphotic deformity of the cervical spine manifest itself and what needs to be done to prevent its occurrence?

Kyphosis of the neck is extremely rare, since the physiologically correct curve for this part of the spine is lordosis. This sign of poor posture is not so easy to notice. Most often, patients seek help because they begin to be bothered by pain and other somatic manifestations. They can be so strong that they can even deprive the patient of his usual way of life.

Kyphosis in the cervical segment of the spine is said to occur when its natural lordosis begins, gradually straightens, and becomes flat. As this process worsens, it leads to the formation of pathological kyphosis for the cervical region.

Pathological deformation of the spinal column in the cervical region has related causes as curvatures in other regions. Most often they are divided into two groups - congenital and acquired. The first of them include:

• Genetic predisposition. This can be understood by tracing similar signs in several generations of relatives;
• Kyphosis, which appeared in the first year of the baby’s life. It can occur against the background of rickets, cerebral palsy, or after polio;
• A congenital form of spinal column deformity can occur due to weakness of the muscular and ligamentous corset, as well as softening of the vertebral bodies themselves;
• In the appearance of pathological deformation, intrauterine anomalies of fetal development and injuries received by the child during childbirth are of great importance.

• Changes that occur in all tissues of the patient due to aging of the body;
• Diseases that cause metabolic and mineral disorders in the body, as well as osteoporosis, osteochondrosis and other diseases of the spine;
• Various spinal injuries and poor posture;
• Tumors in the tissues of the spine or surrounding structures.

Kyphotic alignment of the cervical spine can occur in anyone regardless of gender or age.

The curvature of the spinal column occurs gradually, and this change in appearance does not become noticeable immediately. Most often, it is his relatives and friends who notice that the patient has deformed posture. The person himself may suspect something is wrong based on a change in his health status. The main symptom that begins to darken his daily life is pain in the back, neck, and sometimes headaches.

Along with it appear:

• Blood pressure indicators that are atypical for a person (increase or decrease);
• Numbness of hands;
• Increased fatigue;
• Sometimes hearing or vision impairment.

The patient experiences such severe pain that it can lead to loss of motor activity. Mobility in the cervical spine is also sharply limited, and a crunching sound can be heard when turning.

Deformation of any part of the spine affects the spinal endings. When the roots are pinched, various complications can occur, including urinary incontinence or peripheral paralysis.

The most dangerous complication is compression myelopathy. In the body, the vertebral artery is pinched. Clinically, the patient experiences a sharp increase in all the symptoms that bother him. First of all, headaches worsen, since thanks to this artery, 25% of the supply to the brain structures is ensured. At the same time, numbness in certain areas of the neck or back may occur or intensify.

In order to avoid such tragic consequences, which can ultimately lead to the patient’s disability, it is necessary to contact a specialist in a timely manner. Do not neglect preventive examinations. It is thanks to them that the pathology of any organ or system can be detected before the failure makes itself felt through somatic manifestations.

Kyphotic deformity of the cervical spine must be treatable. The current level of development of medicine will make it possible to easily determine the nature of the pathology in each patient. Treatment tactics will be developed by a specialist based on the type and nature of the pathology.

First of all, it will be necessary to eliminate the factor that provoked the appearance of the pathology. Symptomatic treatment will then be carried out, since the first priority is always to relieve the patient's pain. For this purpose, it is recommended to use nonspecific anti-inflammatory drugs (analgin, diclofenac and others).

However, the main method in the treatment of this pathology of the cervical spine remains the wearing of special orthopedic corsets by the patient. In combination with special physical therapy exercises, strengthening of the back muscles is achieved. Over time, the ligaments become so strong that they can hold all the vertebrae in their physiological position. If these methods are ineffective, surgery may be recommended to the patient. Surgical intervention cannot guarantee a clearly positive outcome for the patient. Therefore, it is worth resorting to such an extreme only if the forecast of the expected result exceeds the possible risks.

Kyphotic spinal deformity - complications

The information presented is not intended for self-medication. It is not guaranteed to be accurate or applicable to you. Contact medical specialists!

As we described in the article containing a description of the pathology. Kyphosis as such is more a symptom than a disease. However, it is a completely independent launching pad for many ailments.

Among the latter there are those that can make a person disabled until the end of his days.

Let's start with the basics to help you understand the main risks.

Curvature of posture is nothing more than a violation of the anatomical structure of the chest (and sometimes the upper part of the lumbar region).

A change in the shape and position of the vertebrae is necessarily reflected in the position of the ribs. Over time, their mobility becomes significantly limited.

The ribs compress the organs located inside. The most significant pressure is placed on the lungs, a key element of the respiratory system. Their constant presence in constraint over time provokes the development of pulmonary failure. This is the first complication of kyphosis, the most typical.

Let's discuss further. Come on, what else is in the chest? That's right, heart. His work also requires normal physiological conditions. In addition to pulmonary failure in a person with kyphotic posture, cardiac failure is often added.

But these are not all possible surprises.

With severe thoracolumbar deformity and with compensatory lordosis, the abdominal cavity is compressed. The result is the development of chronic diseases of the digestive organs - the stomach and intestines.

The liver also suffers.

An additional negative factor is the insufficient supply of oxygen to the mentioned organs, which is explained by inappropriate conditions for the proper functioning of the heart.

We will not say that every patient diagnosed with kyphosis is at risk of gastritis or colitis. You just need to understand that even a prerequisite for the acquisition of such ailments can be the last straw, added to other reasons for the development of a particular disease.

Finally, let's think about the most frightening type of complications of kyphotic spinal deformity - impaired motor functions. It happens when the modified vertebrae begin to press on the spinal canal, which contains the spinal cord.

Unfortunately, sometimes incorrect posture leads to paresis and paralysis. Occasionally, pressure on the spinal cord sets the stage for inflammatory diseases, such as secondary meningitis.

For some, the most terrible complication may not even be paralysis, but deformity. Angular kyphosis gradually turns into a real hump.

Kyphosis of the thoracic spine - frequency

The true incidence of pathological kyphosis is unknown. Depending on diagnostic criteria, it is approximately 3-8% of the population. However, the vast majority of cases are of little clinical significance, and severe deformity is quite rare.

Kyphosis of the thoracic spine - pathological physiology

Normally, the thoracic spine has a physiological kyphosis of 20-40°, which is supported by muscular and ligamentous supporting structures. Many disease processes can lead to an abnormal increase in dorsal kyphosis. Despite the wide variability of causes (see below), the immediate mechanisms producing deformation are almost always similar. This is either a decrease in the height of the vertebral body in front and its adoption of a wedge-shaped shape, or a violation of the integrity of supporting structures (ligaments or muscles), or both. Often kyphosis is not presented in its pure form, but with elements of rotation and lateral bending in the upper part of the thoracic spine.

The most common causes of kyphosis

Kyphosis of the thoracic spine - clinical manifestations

With so many causes, it is not surprising that kyphosis can appear at any age. Congenital kyphosis is usually obvious at birth. Adolescent kyphosis, or Scheuermann's disease, develops gradually, usually at puberty, and affects girls 2 times more often than boys. Kyphosis due to osteoporosis occurs mainly in postmenopausal women. Tumor, infection, or trauma can cause kyphotic deformity in patients of any age. Regardless of the etiology or age at which symptoms appear, the symptoms caused by the deformity are the same.

The patient is usually prompted to seek medical help by pain in the lower thoracic spine. There is often a gradual onset and the pain may improve with rest. The patient may indicate its irradiation to the groin area. It is usually unusual for patients to have an early awareness of spinal deformity in themselves, although others may already notice it. General symptoms may only be manifestations of a primary disease (eg, infection, advanced malignancy, rheumatoid arthritis).

With prolonged duration of severe spinal deformity, symptoms of neurological disorders or respiratory failure may develop. By the time the patient sees a doctor, physical examination usually reveals a curvature. The hump, barely noticeable in the initial manifestations, is found in the middle or lower part of the thoracic spine. It protrudes more strongly when the subject bends forward (Fig. 239). With further bending, pain and muscle spasm may appear. The latter can also be detected by palpation of the paravertebral muscles in the hump area. There may be stiffness in the joints and chest muscles. Patients with significant deformity have spastic paralysis.

Rice. 239. In a patient with thoracic kyphosis, the irregular curve is clearly visible when flexed.

Kyphosis of the thoracic spine - complications

Kyphotic deformity is a serious concern for patients, as it gives the impression of an unattractive “round back” picture. This is believed to play an important causal role in the psychological problems that often arise in these patients. With a pronounced kyphotic angle, the hump protrudes from behind and can be painful (Fig. 240). This creates a pressure point leading to the formation of bedsores, especially in patients on bed rest. A characteristic consequence of the deformity is also pain in the neck and lower back, resulting from increased lordosis in these areas.

As with scoliosis, severe deformation of the thoracic region can lead to respiratory failure. A manifestation of spinal cord compression can be spastic paralysis, which is another complication of significant deformation. Although paralysis is much more common with kyphosis than with scoliosis, this complication is nevertheless rare in general.

Kyphosis of the thoracic spine - diagnosis

As mentioned above, diagnosis is made based on history and physical examination. A radiological sign of kyphosis is a wedge-shaped vertebral body in the middle or lower part of the thoracic region with a dorsal kyphosis of over 40°. However, specific radiographic characteristics vary widely and depend on the cause of the deformity, such as tuberculosis, ankylosing spondylitis, or previous fracture. A relatively specific radiological picture is characterized by adolescent kyphosis, represented by three or more wedge-shaped thoracic vertebrae, narrowed by at least 5° each. In addition, there are damage to the endplates and slight protrusion of discs into the vertebral body, which are detected radiographically as calcification occurs (Schmorl's nodes). Ultimately, the intervertebral spaces narrow.

Kyphosis of the thoracic spine - urgent measures and referral to a specialist

Whenever possible, the goal is to cure the underlying process, such as infection, osteoporosis, or malignancy. The optimal approach may require collaboration between multiple physicians, especially when dealing with a treatable condition. Unfortunately, as with scoliosis, a significant number of young patients are “observed” by family doctors, who miss the period when the maximum result can be achieved from adequate management and treatment.

Treatment for significant deformities usually includes analgesics, bed rest and exercises, and various braces or casts. The vast majority of patients benefit from conservative therapy.

Surgical intervention is necessary only in a small number of cases and only for specific indications.

Axiom: just as with scoliosis, all patients with pathological kyphosis of the thoracic spine should be referred for consultation to a specialist immediately after diagnosis.