Dr. Gott: Kyphosis to ease as teen stops growing
DEAR DR. GOTT: My grandson, who is 15, was just diagnosed with type II Scheuermann disease of the spine. This was discovered when he had X-rays following a minor moped accident. His doctor has prescribed a muscle relaxant and an anti-inflammatory, along with having him go to physical therapy. What can you tell me about this disease? Will he need to be on medication the rest of his life? Is there a cure for it? What is the cause, and is it hereditary?
His mother has a Harrington’s rod on her spine for scoliosis.
DEAR READER: Scheuermann’s disorder of the spine is more commonly known as adolescent kyphosis, a humplike curvature caused by the wedging together of several vertebra in a row. This can occur when the front of the upper spine fails to grow at the same rate as the back of the spine. Normal thoracic curvature is between 20 and 50 degrees. Scheuermann kyphosis is diagnosed if three or more adjacent vertebrae have wedged at least 5 degrees. While rare at birth, it can occur at any age.
Diagnosis can be made through examination by a physician and X-rays of the spine.
Treatment depends on the specific reason for the disorder. If a tumor or infection is involved, surgery may be recommended. If pain and pronounced curvature is involved, a brace and physical therapy might be appropriate. Congenital forms might require corrective surgery at a young age. If degenerative joint disease is involved or if there are numerous compression fractures, surgery may be necessary to reduce the level of pain and correct the deformity.
Scheuermann’s isn’t a disease, nor is it contagious. The good news is that the disorder ceases when an adolescent stops growing. My guess is that his doctor is well informed and is providing appropriate care.
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