Kyphosis: Diagnostic techniques and treatment options
Posted by justvideos on October 23rd, 2018
Is surgery the only option in severe cases of Kyphosis
Kyphosis needs an early diagnosis to prevent the surgical procedure. There are many diagnostic techniques available for Kyphosis. Apart from surgery, medicines and therapies also act as a treatment of Kyphosis. However, in extreme conditions, surgery is the only option.
Kyphosis is the exaggerated rounding of the spine. It is important to consult the orthopedics as soon as possible. This will help to avoid the other complications and avoid the surgical treatment. However, there are various diagnostic techniques and treatments available for Kyphosis.
Diagnosis:
During the diagnosis, your orthopedics may ask you to stand and bent to look at your spine from the side. Because during Kyphosis the upper portion of the back will turn round. Other techniques for diagnosis are –
- X Rays – Simple X rays can help in determining the degree of the curvature. It can help you in detecting the deformities in the curvature. It also determines which type of Kyphosis the patient is suffering from.
- CT Scan - If your Orthopedic require more insight, he/she may advise you to undergo a CT scan. It takes the X-ray images from the different angles. Then, combines it to form the cross-sectional images and combine the internal structures.
- MRI – If your doctor suspects a tumor or the infection, your orthopedic may request you to go for MRI. It uses the radio waves from the strong magnets to produce detailed images of the soft tissues and the bones.
- Nerve Test – If you are experiencing the weakness in the muscle or numbness, your doctor can recommend several tests. These tests will determine how nerve impulses are traveling between the nerves.
Treatments:
The treatments of Kyphosis depends upon various factors like age and effects. Various treatments available are –
- Medications
- Pain Relievers – If ibuprofen and naproxen are not enough for the pain, then ask the orthopedic for more painkillers. However, the painkillers are not available without the prescription.
- Osteoporosis drugs – In many cases, Kyphosis is the first clue that the patients are suffering from the osteoporosis. The osteoporosis drugs are helpful in preventing the additional damage to the spinal cord. Bone-strengthening drugs may avoid the deformation of the additional spinal fractures.
- Therapies
- Braces – Children suffering from this disease have to use the braces to stop the further growth of bones. This will also help in maintaining the posture. The braces do not cause any problem. The child can participate in sports as well. Braces which are tight are almost invisible. Braces are generally made up of plastic. The effectiveness of braces depends on the time and days it is worn.
- Exercises – Exercises that strengthen the bones and improves the spinal flexibility. It also helps in improving the back pain. The exercises using abdominal muscles helps in improving the posture.
- Healthy Lifestyle – Maintaining healthy body weight is essential to avoid various problems. It will also help in the prevention of back pain and provides relief to the symptoms of Kyphosis.
- Good Bone density – Good bone density is very important to avoid Kyphosis. Good calcium diet along with vitamin D is important for maintaining good bone density. If you have a family history of osteoporosis, you are more prone to Kyphosis as well.
- Surgical Procedure
- If the curve formed by Kyphosis is pinching the spinal cords and other nerves, then your orthopedics can suggest you undergo a surgery. This happens only in extreme cases.
- The most common procedure is known as spinal fusion. In this procedure, two or more than two vertebrae are joined permanently. Also, the orthopedic surgeon may insert the piece of the bone between the vertebrae. The surgeon may then fasten the vertebrae together with the help of screw and metal rods. The rods and screws help to keep the spine together in a proper posture. The screws may then be removed after healing.
Therefore, it is very important to listen to the orthopedic to avoid permanent damage. If you are suffering from Kyphosis, do not worry instead go to the doctor.
