Open AccessAge-Related Hyperkyphosis: Its Causes, Consequences, and Management
Author(s) -
Wendy B. Katzman,
Linda Wanek,
John Shepherd,
Deborah E. Sellmeyer
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
the journal of orthopaedic and sports physical therapy/journal of orthopaedic and sports physical therapy
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.367
H-Index - 121
eISSN - 1938-1344
pISSN - 0190-6011
DOI - 10.2519/jospt.2010.3099
Subject(s) - medicine , natural history , physical therapy , disease , gerontology , physical medicine and rehabilitation , pathology
Age-related hyperkyphosis is an exaggerated anterior curvature in the thoracic spine that occurs commonly with advanced age. This condition is associated with low bone mass, vertebral compression fractures, and degenerative disc disease, and contributes to difficulty performing activities of daily living and decline in physical performance. While there are effective treatments, currently there are no public health approaches to prevent hyperkyphosis among older adults. Our objective is to review the prevalence and natural history of hyperkyphosis, associated health implications, measurement tools, and treatments to prevent this debilitating condition.