Treatment of kyphosis in a sanatorium

Kyphosis

Kyphosis refers to a congenital or acquired curvature of the spine, characterized by a hump-like deformity in the upper back. Kyphosis is defined as an excessive outward curvature of the thoracic spine in the sagittal plane. A curvature angle exceeding 40° in the thoracic region is considered pathological. In kyphosis, the apex of the curve is located higher than it should be in normal spinal alignment. The most common causes include congenital muscle weakness, prolonged poor posture (especially involving a bent back), and childhood rickets. In addition to postural disorders, kyphosis leads to a reduction in lung volume, which negatively affects the respiratory system and other body functions.

The so-called angular kyphosis, or hunchback, develops as a result of vertebral damage due to tuberculosis, leading to their flattening. This type of kyphosis results in pronounced deformities not only of the back but also of the chest, which protrudes forward. Such changes often cause serious internal organ dysfunction and can lead to disability.

How the Disease Manifests

Kyphosis most commonly develops during childhood (with the highest risk between ages 12–14). At early stages, symptoms are limited to muscle fatigue, while pain is usually absent. Fatigue occurs more quickly in children with kyphosis compared to their peers, and by the second half of the day, they feel the need to rest. As the condition progresses, spinal curvature becomes increasingly visible and fixed over time. The child may complain of pain between the shoulder blades, headaches, and difficulty concentrating. Frequent colds often occur due to a weakened immune system at this stage.

In advanced stages, spinal curvature becomes clearly visible and persistent. The torso appears shortened, the chest caved in, and the shoulders slightly droop forward. The patient experiences constant dull back pain that intensifies after any physical activity. Movement becomes restricted, with pain occurring during bending and twisting. Without timely treatment, chronic diseases of internal organs may develop.

The progression of the disease typically stops once growth ends. If early signs of kyphosis appear, the child should immediately be examined by a vertebrologist, who will perform necessary diagnostic procedures (visual examination, X-rays of the chest and spine) and identify the underlying cause of the pathology.

Depending on its origin, kyphosis is classified into:

Acquired kyphosis – develops due to long-term incorrect posture;
Congenital kyphosis – originates during fetal development due to developmental abnormalities;
Post-traumatic kyphosis – develops as a result of previous spinal trauma;
Degenerative kyphosis – caused by degenerative changes in the spine;
Paralytic kyphosis – develops as a consequence of paralysis-causing conditions.

Treatment Methods

Treatment for kyphosis primarily focuses on strengthening abdominal and back muscles and stimulating metabolic processes in the spine. Within a comprehensive treatment program, regular therapeutic exercises under professional supervision according to an individual plan are recommended. Swimming, massage, and various manual therapy techniques are also beneficial. Patients are advised to sleep on a firm mattress and wear a special orthopedic brace.

In most cases, the following preventive and therapeutic measures have proven highly effective:

Corrective gymnastics — both with and without equipment (e.g., Yevminov board);
Massage of spasmodic back muscles;
Manual therapy techniques (post-isometric relaxation);
Intermittent dry spinal traction using computerized systems;
Use of a corrective thoracic brace;
CO₂ gas injections to enhance blood supply to paravertebral tissues;
Magnetotherapy and electrostimulation of back muscles;
Balneological procedures as indicated;
Electrophoresis;
Light therapy using magnet-infrared laser and Korobov’s photonic polychromatic matrix.

The complex treatment plan is strictly tailored based on diagnostic results.

Rehabilitation at Berezoviy Gai Health Resort

The health resort complex “Berezoviy Gai” encourages not to delay addressing health issues until they become irreversible. Located within a natural reserve near a forest and a clean lake, our sanatorium offers all the necessary tools for qualified diagnosis and treatment of common musculoskeletal pathologies — kyphosis, spondylosis, spondylolisthesis, sciatica, lumbago, and others.

You will be offered:

An individualized treatment schedule;
Accommodation in comfortable, well-equipped rooms;
Nutritious four-meal-a-day diet tailored to your body's needs and therapy course;
Leisure activities suitable for any taste and temperament;
Educational and cultural excursions, and much more.

Berezoviy Gai Sanatorium – where pleasure meets health!