Case 3. As in previous Scheuermann’s cases, deformity occurred in a young male though continued to extreme levels. The pronounced curvature is upsetting in appearance and this extreme has the potential to severely affect lung and heart function.
Changes are not thought possible and in severe cases, surgery is offered to minimise the compressive effects on vital organs.
Certain activities must be avoided. The condition is insidious. A child with a screen may provide much needed space for a parent …… (read on)
Background
A 23-year old man presented with middle back pain and scoliosis (kypho-scoliosis). The structural deformity did not prevent recreational activities though may have been exacerbated by gym work. His mother was alarmed by what was happening and numerous attempts over 3 years to bring it under control were unsuccessful.
Therapy
As in all Behavioural Therapy, ‘What to avoid’ is discussed as well as ‘What to Do’: a 2-fold ‘Behavioural Modification’ is imperative.
Specific sitting, standing and lying behaviours, not exercises, were tailored to his unique curve.
Sessions included: 4 x 1 week daily attendances, Weekly Skype sessions over an 6 month period.
Visual and x-ray improvements were documented via photos and x-rays.
Results
- Drops were noticed in the Kyphosis angle from 110 – 95 – 88 degrees over 6 months
- Tilt of the T12 vertebra reduced overall from 57 – 47 degrees.
- The tilt of the T3 vertebra dropped considerably from 53 – 41 degrees.
- The depth of the chest as measured by x-ray (thick black Centre of Gravity Line to spine) decreased from 210 mm to 195 mm.
- Spine straightened and height grew 19 mm.
- Forward head carriage was reduced.
Discussion
There is little doubt that poor posture is on the increase. Many young and old alike are now sitting for hours at a time in front of electronic devices. Computers, Gaming screens and mobile devices have changed the lifestyle landscape. Correct use of technology is essential if we are to live healthy lives.
A dramatic change in Kyphoscoliosis is observed. Unsurprisingly, the duration of ‘corrective’ activity was aided considerably via the use of screens. Many spend hours, 5-6 per day, in front of a screen.
Spinal deformity of this magnitude is obvious to any onlooker and becomes more confronting when bending over is attempted. The ‘hunch’ increases significantly.
If causes are linked to prolonged postures, as facilitated by electronic devices, then concern and education are vital to spines that are maturing. Younger generations are often seen lying on their stomach fixed intently on a mobile device or slouching in a lounge with iPad in hand. Useful information can be found in an article on Gaming that will assist parents.
The condition is reversible as seen in 3 consecutive photos. All films were taken at the beginning of each session and not following a programme of Key Behavioural Change. The change has gained a certain ‘permanency’ and may even reduce further in due course, provided key habits are adopted.
Enlarged thoracic curves (mid back) are common in young men, osteoporotic women or men. Kyphosis is also seen in super-fit triathletes (positional forces) and now increasingly in ‘Gamers’. Repeated or one-off trauma, such as landing on your feet from a height whilst bent over (as in parkour) may cause ‘Wedge fracture’ of the spine. In the elderly, it can come about through simply coughing in the bent over position. Some are born with (congenital) wedging of the vertebrae leading to kyphosis of the spine with time.
The mechanism for height loss is likely due to bony deformation – wedging of the vertebrae. ‘Wedging’ is associated with irregular blood supply of the top and bottom of the vertebrae, known as the ‘endplates’. When kyphosis is reversed a person gets taller. Accurate laser tools were used to record a height increase of 19 mm in the 2 weeks. It’s not thought possible that the bones can change their ‘wedge’ appearance, though whilst X-ray analysis of the vertebra is inconclusive at this stage, marginal increases have been noted (as recorded on 2nd and 3rd films). Further comparisons are scheduled at the 1 yr. anniversary of care.
In Summary:
Faulty prolonged usage of electronic media is likely to have ongoing devastating consequences for all who are in front of a screen. Preventing kyphosis aides a better exchange of bad for good air and increases lung function, digestion, headaches and pain and some studies suggest promotes employment possibilities. The converse is also true, more and more children are likely to succumb to chronic health issues, if not advised properly and at an early age.
This man’s appearance changed after an initial 2 week care programme and continued to change over the next 6 months.
The case is continuing.
NB: Results vary from case to case.
Our commitment is to make a break-through for large and smaller curves by empowering people
Where reduction is possible it is often seen days or weeks. Long term success is gauged over months.
All results on this site have been achieved without bracing, machines, surgery or medications.