A 21-year-old member asked:
My husband noticed that myupper back is starting to become roundedin appearance. why is this, and will my posture continue to worsen?
2 doctor answers • 3 doctors weighed in
Dr. Ralph Morgan Lewisanswered
Family Medicine 39 years experience
Osteoporosis?: Sounds like you may be developing kyphosis (commonly called a widow's hump) which results from osteoporosis of the thoracic area of the spine (and most likely elsewhere. You should see your doc to check your calcium levels as well as schedule a bone density test (dexa scan). Dairy products, green leafy veggies, calcium supplements (citrate is absorbed best) + vit d3, and exercise help—>.
6.1k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Ralph Morgan Lewis commented
Family Medicine 39 years experience
Provided original answer
—> there are also meds to help strengthen bone density. if the curvature becomes severe, a procedure can re-expand vertebrae (kyphoplasty) to prevent spinal cord/nerve pressure
Jan 31, 2012
Dr. Donald Alvesanswered
Emergency Medicine 25 years experience
Self-correct: At your age, it is more likely a habit than destiny. You need to practice / emphasize standing up fully and not "slouching" forward, as can lose vertebral height over time. Chiropractor or physical therapist can often help if not succeeding with self-correction.
4.9k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Aug 13, 2013
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