children s health issues
Kyphosis
Scheuermann Disease
Scheuermann disease is the most common form of fixed kyphosis. It usually begins in adolescence, affecting boys slightly more often than girls. The cause of Scheuermann disease is unknown, but it sometimes runs in families. Scoliosis , a sideways curvature of the spine, also often develops in children with kyphosis (called kyphoscoliosis). Scheuermann disease is an osteochondrosis, which is a group of disorders of the Overview of Bone Disorders in Children that occur when the child is growing rapidly. Doctors are not sure what causes osteochondrosis, but the disorders do seem to run in families. Severe kyphosis is more likely to cause discomfort and sometimes can restrict chest motion, causing lung disease. Scheuermann disease may be discovered at school during a routine screening for spinal problems. Doctors confirm the diagnosis of Scheuermann disease by taking x-rays of the spine. Sometimes Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) (MRI) or Reducing weight-bearing and strenuous activities Rarely a brace or surgery Mild kyphosis can be treated by reducing weight-bearing stress and by avoiding strenuous activities. The spine may straighten slightly with treatment, although symptoms may not lessen. It is unclear whether treating mild kyphosis prevents the curve from worsening. When kyphosis is more severe, treatment most often consists of wearing a spinal brace or sleeping on a rigid bed. Treatment may lessen symptoms and prevent the curve from worsening. Rarely, despite treatment, kyphosis worsens to such an extent that surgery is needed to straighten the spine. 