Your Guide to Treating Kyphosis in Older Adults

Doctors often treat kyphosis in older adults with a combination of physical therapy, bracing, and medications.

The spine’s natural upper-back curve, called the thoracic kyphotic curve, is essential for balance and posture. However, when this curve becomes too pronounced, it leads to hyperkyphosis, resulting in a noticeable hunch or rounded back.

This excessive curvature, often simply called kyphosis by doctors, can cause pain and mobility issues, especially in older adults.

Early treatment can help manage symptoms, prevent further progression, and improve quality of life.

Treatment options for kyphosis in older adults

Treatment options for kyphosis in older adults include:

• Physical therapy: performing exercises to strengthen back muscles, improve posture, and increase flexibility
• Posture training: practicing techniques to improve body alignment and prevent further curvature
• Medications: taking pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs to manage discomfort
• Bracing: wearing a brace to support the spine and reduce curvature progression
• Lifestyle modifications: improving diet and physical activity to strengthen bones and help prevent osteoporosis
• Surgical options: in severe cases, undergoing surgery such as spinal fusion to correct the curvature and stabilize the spine

Research shows that early identification and intervention are crucial to prevent the negative consequences of hyperkyphosis, such as reduced physical function and increased fall risk, in the later stages of life.

Exercises for kyphosis treatment in older adults

Before starting any exercise routine for kyphosis, talk with your doctor or physical therapist. They can advise you on your form while doing these exercises.

Here are some examples of exercises that can help treat kyphosis in older adults:

• Back extensions: Lie on your stomach with your hands under your forehead. Lift your upper body off the ground as high as you can without straining. Hold for a few seconds, and then lower back down.
• Rows with light weights: Hold light weights in each hand. Bend forward slightly, trying to keep your back straight. Pull the weights toward your torso, squeezing your shoulder blades together. Lower the weights back down.
• Spinal twists: Sit on a chair or the floor with your back straight. Slowly twist your torso to one side, and then to the other, while keeping your hips stable.
• Shoulder blade squeezes: Sit or stand with your back straight. Squeeze your shoulder blades together, hold for a few seconds, and then relax.
• Chin tucks: Sit or stand with your back straight. Gently tuck your chin toward your chest, creating a double chin. Hold for a few seconds, and then release.
• Foam rolling: Place a foam roller on the floor. Lie on your back with the roller under your upper back. Gently roll back and forth, allowing the foam roller to massage your back.
• Resistance band rows: Anchor a resistance band to a stable object. Hold the band with both hands and pull it toward you, keeping your elbows close to your body. Slowly relax your arms.
• Posture practice: Use a manual with pictures showing correct posture. Practice standing and sitting with your spine aligned correctly at least three times per day.

Is kyphosis reversible in older adults?

Kyphosis, particularly in older adults, can be challenging to fully reverse, but you can manage and improve it with appropriate treatment.

One study found that a 3-month group exercise and posture training program helped older adults manage kyphosis for up to 3 years. The program prevented further worsening of kyphosis and improved the curve in the lower back (lordosis).

What happens if kyphosis is left untreated in older adults?

Untreated kyphosis can significantly affect daily activities and overall quality of life.

Research shows it can lead to reduced physical and respiratory function, chronic upper back pain, decreased balance, lower quality of life, and impaired gait performance.

Older adults with hyperkyphosis may have difficulty with tasks like rising from a chair, balance problems, slower walking speed, and difficulty with stair climbing, increasing their risk of falls.

They may also experience more difficulty with physical tasks and report a decline in their ability to perform daily activities compared with those without the condition.

Are kyphosis treatments covered by insurance or Medicare?

Kyphosis treatments are often covered by insurance or Medicare, but specifics vary by plan. Talk with your insurance provider to learn specifics, as copays may be involved.

You can look up coverage details using the ICD-10 codes for kyphosis treatment:

• M40.0: Postural kyphosis
• M40.1: Structural kyphosis
• M40.2: Kyphosis due to Scheuermann’s disease
• M40.3: Kyphosis due to trauma
• M40.9: Kyphosis, unspecified
• M81.0: Age-related osteoporosis without current pathological fracture

Takeaway

When treating kyphosis, it’s important to address both the physical and lifestyle aspects to improve your quality of life. Exercises that strengthen your back and improve posture, along with lifestyle changes, can help manage and sometimes reduce the curvature.

With the right treatment and care, you can maintain better posture and overall well-being.