About this condition
Kyphoscoliosis combines an increased kyphotic curve with a sideways spinal curve. It is not the same as ordinary slouching; the type and degree of deformity require clinical assessment.
What you should know
Kyphosis and scoliosis affect different planes of the spine. Postural round-back appearance must be distinguished from structural changes. Severity and functional impact vary by age and cause.
Symptoms and reasons for assessment
A rounded upper back, uneven shoulders, a leaning trunk, early muscle fatigue and discomfort when sitting or walking may be noticed. In more marked cases movement can be restricted and other functions, including breathing, may be affected.
Other possible explanations
Postural kyphosis, structural kyphosis and scoliosis are not identical. Neither a photograph nor a quick visual judgement establishes which components are present.
How the problem is assessed
The clinician reviews how the shape changed over time, growth, neurological symptoms, mobility and breathing. If indicated, standing spinal radiographs and assessment by an orthopaedic or spinal deformity specialist help establish the pattern and severity.
Treatment and follow-up options
Care may involve observation, tailored exercises for function and endurance, bracing during growth or specialist orthopaedic treatment. Manual techniques are not a guaranteed way to reverse a structural deformity; treatment needs an individual risk assessment.
When urgent care is needed
Rapid deterioration of deformity in a child, new neurological problems, major pain after trauma or breathing difficulty needs timely assessment. Sudden weakness or loss of bladder control is an emergency. Call 103 for serious acute symptoms.
Related health information
Scoliosis; Posture changes in children; Vertebrologist consultation.
Signs and symptoms
Diagnosis and tests
Care and treatment approaches
When to seek urgent care
Frequently asked questions
Can I distinguish kyphoscoliosis from poor posture myself?
No. An examination and sometimes imaging are needed to determine whether the changes are structural.
Can exercises permanently straighten the spine?
Exercises may support function and comfort but cannot be guaranteed to correct a structural deformity.
When is an orthopaedic opinion needed?
An assessment is important if a curve progresses, function worsens or neurological or breathing symptoms appear.
Information sources
Medical source links used when preparing this article.
Important information
A medical consultation is needed for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Self-treatment can be harmful to your health.
