Yoga & Kyphosis

Kyphosis is a condition resulting in an excessive curve of the upper spine, giving the appearance of a hunched back. This condition can be caused by a structural problem or by muscular imbalance and poor postural habits. According to the "American Journal of Public Health," yoga is an effective treatment for kyphosis caused by muscular and postural problems. Yoga exercises, or poses, correct muscular imbalances and help improve spinal alignment.

Function

The muscles surrounding your spine function to keep your body upright and balance the natural curves of your spine. They provide your spine with stability and mobility. An excessive curve of the upper spine is a condition known as kyphosis, or hyperkyphosis. This condition gives your body a slouched or slumped appearance resembling a hump or hunched position. This condition may appear during adolescence as a result of a disease known as Scheuermanns's disease, or during adulthood as a result of muscular imbalance or bone degeneration.

Factors

Contributing factors to kyphosis in adolescence include congenital problems during fetal development. In severe cases, this condition may lead to paralysis. Kyphosis developed before or after adolescence is attributed to muscular dystrophy, spina bifida, tuberculosis, tumors, osteoporosis and arthritis. Symptoms besides the rounded appearance of the spine include fatigue, breathing difficulties and back pain and stiffness. The spinal curvature can affect internal organs.
Controllable factors, such as muscular imbalance and poor posture, may be a result of inactivity and poor postural habits. Muscular imbalance is caused by weak chest muscles and overstretched upper back muscles. Postural imbalances are caused by remaining in a slumped position while standing or sitting for long periods of time.

Treatment

Cases of kyphosis range from mild to severe. Mild cases caused by mechanical and muscular problems can be corrected with exercise and the awareness of improved posture. In more severe cases, treatment in the form of physical therapy and braces are used. The most severe cases may need surgery, which MayoClinic.com says is a last resort due to the risks associated with spinal surgery.

Effects

A 2001 study by the UCLA School of Medicine found that yoga was a safe and effective treatment or intervention for kyphosis caused by muscle weakness and poor posture. Practicing yoga poses improved back muscles and corrected biomechanical factors such as a slouched posture. Poses placing your body in an arched position open your chest cavity and strengthen your back muscles. Improved postural awareness can be integrated into standing poses and everyday movements. This diminishes the effects of a slumped body position.

Considerations

Yoga is a physically challenging workout. Beginner-level participants should seek instruction in proper form. As in any workout, obtain your physician's clearance prior to starting an exercise program.