Kyphosis in Pomona , NY

Understanding and Treating Kyphosis at Care PT of Rockland

Does your child seem to be slouching more than usual? Are you experiencing persistent upper back pain or notice a rounded appearance in your shoulders? You’re not alone. At Care PT of Rockland in Pomona , NY, we specialize in treating kyphosis – a condition that affects both children and adults, often causing that forward-hunched posture that can impact daily life and confidence.

What is Kyphosis and Who Does It Affect?

Think of your spine as a mighty river with natural curves that help distribute weight and maintain balance. Kyphosis occurs when the upper back (thoracic spine) curves forward more than it should – imagine a river that’s carved too deep in one section. While some curvature is normal (20-45 degrees), kyphosis develops when this curve exceeds 50 degrees.

This condition affects people of all ages, from adolescents experiencing growth spurts to adults spending long hours at desks. Our Pomona , NY physical therapy team has successfully treated hundreds of cases, ranging from mild postural issues to more complex structural conditions.

Types of Kyphosis We Treat

Pediatric Kyphosis

• Postural Kyphosis: Most common in teenagers, especially during growth spurts
• Scheuermann’s Kyphosis: Affects 0.4-8% of children, typically appearing during adolescence
• Congenital Kyphosis: Present at birth, requiring early intervention

Adult Kyphosis

• Age-related (Postural): Common in adults who spend significant time sitting
• Degenerative Kyphosis: Often develops with age or arthritis
• Post-traumatic: Results from spinal injuries or fractures

Recognizing the Signs: When to Seek Help

Common Symptoms in Children

• Noticeable rounded upper back, especially when viewed from the side
• Difficulty maintaining proper posture during activities
• Fatigue when sitting upright for extended periods
• Mild back pain that worsens with activity

Adult Symptoms to Watch For

• Persistent upper back pain or stiffness
• Rounded shoulders that won’t straighten with effort
• Fatigue in back muscles
• Limited spinal flexibility
• Difficulty standing straight for long periods

Emergency Signs and When to Seek Immediate Care

While kyphosis is typically non-emergency, seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Sudden onset of severe pain
• Numbness or tingling in arms or legs
• Difficulty breathing
• Loss of balance or coordination

Our Comprehensive Treatment Approach

At Care PT of Rockland, we believe in personalized care that addresses not just the symptoms, but the root cause of your kyphosis. Our evidence-based treatment plans are tailored to each patient’s specific needs and lifestyle.

For Children and Adolescents

1.  Early Intervention Programs

• Posture education through fun, engaging exercises
• Core strengthening activities
• Family-involved home exercise programs

2.  Growth-Conscious Treatment

• Regular monitoring of spinal changes
• Adjustment of treatment plans during growth spurts
• Coordination with pediatricians when needed

For Adults

1.  Postural Correction Techniques

• Workplace ergonomic assessment
• Custom exercise programs
• Manual therapy techniques

2.  Strength and Flexibility Training

• Targeted back strengthening exercises
• Chest and shoulder flexibility work
• Core stability training

Research and Evidence Behind Our Approach

At Care PT of Rockland, we stay current with the latest research in kyphosis treatment. Recent studies show:

• 70% of adolescents with postural kyphosis show significant improvement with consistent physical therapy
• Early intervention in children can prevent progression in up to 80% of cases
• Adult patients report a 60% reduction in pain levels after 12 weeks of targeted treatment
• Combined manual therapy and exercise programs show better outcomes than exercise alone

Preventing Kyphosis: Tips from Our Experts

For Parents

• Encourage active play and proper posture during screen time
• Regular posture checks during growth spurts
• Proper backpack wearing techniques
• Regular physical activity

For Adults

• Ergonomic workplace setup
• Regular movement breaks
• Strength training exercises
• Proper sleeping positions