Scheuermanns and Degenerative Kyphosis

Scheuermanns and degenerative kyphosis, also referred to as hump-back of the thoracic spine, is a condition that stems from either a laxity of spinal ligaments or deformity of the vertebra in the youth or degenerative wear and tear in the older adult. In all cases, the spinal curve of the mid-back becomes greater than normal (normal is 20-40 degrees). As the curve increases, the abnormal alignment has to be compensated for by increasing the curves in the neck and lower back. This causes pain and premature wear in those areas.
Dr. Donald Corenman demonstrates the importance of normal balance and how the normal curves of the spine (cervical and lumbar lordosis and thoracic kyphosis) balance each other out. Explanation is also provided on the importance of alignment and how misalignment can cause increased pain and muscle fatigue.