Pediatric Diseases and ConditionsGrowth-Related Disorders
Kyphosis in Children A normal spine, when viewed from behind
appears straight. However, a spine affected by kyphosis shows
evidence of a forward curvature of the back bones (vertebrae) in
the upper back area, giving an abnormally rounded or "humpback"
appearance. Kyphosis is defined as a curvature of the spine
measuring 50 degrees or greater on an X-ray (a diagnostic test
which uses invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce
images of internal tissues, bones, and organs onto film). The
normal spine can bend from 20 to 45 degrees of curvature in the
upper back area. Kyphosis is a type of spinal deformity.
Kyphosis can be congenital (present at birth), or due to
acquired conditions that may include the following: Osteogenesis
imperfecta (also called "brittle bone disease"). A condition
that causes bones to fracture with minimal force. Scheuermann's
disease. A condition that causes the vertebrae to curve forward
in the upper back area. The cause of