Spinal Deformities Caused by Poor Posture: Neglect Can Lead to Degenerative Diseases [Kok! Health]

Neglected Spinal Deformities Such as Kyphosis Can Lead to Degenerative Diseases
Most Cases Improve with Conservative Treatment... Surgery Unavoidable for Curvatures Over 40 Degrees
Strengthening Core Muscles and Maintaining Proper Posture Are Key

Prolonged sitting, increased use of smartphones and computers, and lack of exercise disrupt the normal alignment of the spine. With the added effects of degenerative changes and osteoporosis due to aging, the prevalence of spinal deformities continues to rise.

Spinal deformity refers to an abnormal curvature or misalignment of the spine that deviates from its normal curves. If the spine curves backward excessively, it is called kyphosis; if it curves forward, it is lordosis; and if it curves sideways, it is scoliosis. In the early stages, spinal deformities are often dismissed as simple posture problems because there are no obvious symptoms. However, if left untreated, they can lead to pain and even degenerative spinal diseases, making early detection and management essential.

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Kyphosis is a condition in which the spine bends excessively backward beyond the normal range, most commonly affecting the thoracic region. It is characterized by a rounded upper back, with the shoulders and back slouching forward. As the condition progresses, it can cause back and lower back pain, and in severe cases, may result in reduced respiratory function or symptoms from nerve compression. The most common cause is the habit of maintaining a hunched posture for extended periods while using smartphones or computers. Osteoporotic compression fractures and degenerative spinal changes due to aging are also major contributors.

Treatment primarily involves conservative methods. Posture correction and exercise therapy to strengthen the back, abdominal, and core muscles, along with physical therapy, form the core of management. If pain is present, medication may be added. Surgery is considered only if conservative treatment fails to improve the condition or if nerve compression or gait disturbances develop.

Lordosis refers to an excessive forward curvature of the lower back. This causes the hips to protrude backward and the abdomen to jut forward. If you can easily fit your hand between your lower back and a wall when standing with your back against it, lordosis may be suspected. It may not cause discomfort in the early stages, but in severe cases, it can lead to pain in the lower back and hips when standing or walking for extended periods. If left unattended, it may progress to degenerative spinal diseases, including herniated discs, so caution is needed.

Most cases improve with conservative treatment and do not require surgery. Strengthening core muscles and correcting posture are fundamental, and if there is pain, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or other medications may be used. Surgery may be considered if there is nerve compression or severe deformity that significantly interferes with daily activities.

Scoliosis is a condition in which the spine curves sideways when viewed from the front. Approximately 80 to 85 percent of cases are idiopathic, meaning the cause is unknown, and it most commonly develops during the growth period in children and adolescents. Treatment is determined step-by-step based on the angle of curvature, growth status, and presence of symptoms. If the curvature exceeds 40 degrees, surgery is necessary. For curvatures between 25 and 40 degrees, there is a high risk of secondary spinal stenosis due to spinal deformity in old age, so treatment is recommended. In adults who have completed growth, mild scoliosis is often managed with observation alone and does not require specific treatment.

Surgical treatment aims to realign the abnormally curved spine and stabilize it with metal instrumentation to prevent recurrence of the deformity. If there are congenital anomalies or accompanying disc or hip joint diseases, these are considered comprehensively when planning surgery. In elderly patients, a thorough evaluation of overall health and surgical risk is necessary. Recently, less extensive correction combined with neural decompression has become the preferred surgical approach over large-scale correction procedures. If the deformity is not severe, selective segmental fixation and decompression targeting only the symptomatic area may be performed.

While complete prevention of scoliosis is difficult, early detection and management have a significant impact on prognosis. It is important to monitor for asymmetry in the shoulders or pelvis and body tilting through regular school screenings or at home, and to consult a specialist if any abnormalities are suspected. To prevent spinal deformities, maintaining proper posture and continuously strengthening spinal support muscles are crucial. Avoid sitting in a hunched position for long periods, as well as habits such as favoring one side or carrying a bag on only one shoulder.

Ham Changhwa, Professor of Neurosurgery at Korea University Guro Hospital, advised, "Consistently practicing exercises and stretches to strengthen core and trunk muscles such as the abdomen, back, and hips, along with proper weight management and regular physical activity, can reduce the strain on the spine. For children and adolescents in their growth period, it is best to seek an accurate diagnosis and management from a specialist if any abnormalities are suspected through school screenings or postural observation at home."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.