Case 2 is an increasingly common case of rounding of the spine in young adolescent males and now evident in females. This case is typical of what many young people are now experiencing. The pronounced curvature if left is likely to manifest as a ‘hunch-back’ if evasive and proactive therapy is not initiated. Certain activities must be avoided. Correction of the maturing spine is preferred.
The use of electronic devices to assist with restoration of normal alignment is possible. Awareness is critical.
Background
A 13-year old young man presented with middle back pain and limited movements. The deformity was enough to affect running, football and baseball. His parents noticed an ungainly appearance when running, heard a persistent cough and noted a lack of enjoyment in sport due to pain
Treatment
A 2-fold strategy commenced and specific behaviors were identified that were contributing to the marked curvature in the middle spine (thoracic). Specific sitting, standing and lying exercises were tailored to his unique curve. Sessions were performed for 2 x 30 minutes per day. Football continued.
Visual improvement over weeks and using x-ray over 4 Months.
Results
- Consecutive drops were noticed in Kyphosis angle from 63 – 52 – 50 – 48 degrees over a 4 month period
- Tilt of the T12 vertebra reduced overall from 37 – 31 – 35 – 26 degrees
- The distance from the thick blue Centre of Gravity Line (CoG) decreased from 83 mm to 63 mm overall.
- Parents did a ‘double-take’ when as spectators watching their child run on the baseball field.
- Cough ceased
- Flatter stomach and less forward head carriage.
Discussion
Scheuermann’s prevalence is likely to increase with increased usage of more and more electronic devices.
Bending over (flexion) of the spine can produce a rather large apex and is indicative of increased thoracic Kyphosis. Sway-back as in lying on the stomach and using the phone for extended periods is quite harmful.
The condition is reversible as seen with 3 consecutive reductions. All films were taken at the beginning of each session and not following Key Behavioural Changes.
Increased thoracic curves (mid back) is common in men with Scheuermann’s disorder, triathletes (positional forces) and in people with chronic poor posture and in ladies or men with osteoporosis. Wedge fracture of the spine either acquired or developed over time does not assist with posture, head-carriage or lung function.
Scheuermann’s is thought likely to be associated with irregular blood supply to the vertebral endplates and therefore using KBM it is possible not only prevent further disfigurement but also blood supply to the spinal column. New behaviours have been encouraged and the proper use of electronic devices has been incorporated into a care plan.
All parents are to be very wary of prolonged usage of electronic media. Prevention in this case can often lead to a minimisation of other health disorders related to poor posture, including lung function, digestion, headaches and pain. The opposite is also true, more and more children are likely to succumb to chronic health challenges if not advised properly.
Many postural concerns can be addressed with key behavioural change.
. NB: Results vary from case to case. Our commitment is to make a break-through for large curves and to prevent smaller curves from getting bigger.
Where reduction is possible it is often seen within months.
All results on this site have been achieved without bracing, machines, surgery or medications.