kyphosis is an increased front-to-back curve of the upper spine. It can occur at any age but is most common in older women and often related to osteoporosis. Age-related kyphosis is often due to weakness in the spinal bones that causes them to compress or crack.
Some people with kyphosis have back pain and stiffness. Others have no symptoms other than an exaggerated forward rounding of the back. Severe kyphosis can cause pain and be disfiguring. Treatment may include medication for pain, physiotherapy and sometimes surgery.
