What is the Scheuermann disease?
Scheuermann’s kyphosis (kye-FOH-sis) is a condition affecting the upper back. It makes the upper back rounded so it looks hunched over. It’s sometimes called Scheuermann’s disease.
Is Scheuermann’s disease curable?
The treatment of Scheuermann’s disease is controversial. Some authors think that the natural history of thoracic Scheuermann’s disease is benign and that therefore the condition needs no treatment. Whether orthotics or surgical treatments prevent any of the consequences that may occur is uncertain.
Is Scheuermann’s disease permanent?
Scheuermann’s disease is self-limiting after growth is complete, meaning that it generally runs its course and never presents further complication. Typically, however, once the patient is fully grown, the bones will maintain the deformity.
How do you fix Scheuermann’s disease?
An exercise and physical therapy program, including specific strengthening and hamstring stretching exercises, is often recommended in conjunction with bracing. While exercise won’t correct the deformity, it can be helpful in maintaining flexibility, and alleviating back pain and fatigue.
Where does Scheuermann’s disease occur in the body?
Scheuermann’s disease occurs most often in the upper back, also called the thoracic spine, but occasionally develops in the lower back, or lumbar spine.
What are the bones called in Scheuermann’s spine?
The small bones (called vertebrae) that make up the spine are usually rectangular. They stack like bricks with flexible cartilage in between. When a child has Scheuermann’s, the front edge of some of the vertebrae in the upper back grow slower than the back edge.
Do you need surgery for Scheuermann’s disease?
Surgery is usually not needed except in the most advanced cases. Effective treatments often include braces and a supervised program of exercises to increase flexibility and ease pain. Abnormal Bone Growth. To understand how Scheuermann’s disease develops, it’s helpful to understand the structure of the upper spine.
What does Scheuermann’s kyphosis mean in medical terms?
Scheuermann’s kyphosis (kye-FOH-sis) is a condition affecting the upper back. It makes the upper back rounded so it looks hunched over.