Mid-Back & Ribs
Scheuermann's Kyphosis
Also called: Juvenile kyphosis, roundback
A growth-plate condition of the adolescent spine where several vertebrae grow slightly wedge-shaped, producing an increased, rigid rounding of the mid-back. Distinct from flexible 'slouching' — a Scheuermann's curve doesn't straighten fully with effort. Managed well when caught during growth years.
Common signs
- Noticeable rounding of the upper/mid back in a teen
- Curve remains when asked to stand tall (rigid, not postural)
- Aching mid-back pain, worse with prolonged sitting or activity
- Tight hamstrings and chest muscles commonly accompany it
Seek help now if
- Neurological symptoms in the legs
- Rapidly progressing curve
- Severe pain out of proportion to findings
If any of these is sudden or severe, call 911 or go to an emergency room. For the others, get examined before you start self-care.
What to do first
- Get standing X-rays to measure the curve and confirm the diagnosis versus postural roundback
- During growth, monitoring intervals are set by curve size and remaining growth
- Start an extension-based strengthening and flexibility program — this is the cornerstone
The longer road
- Larger curves during growth may warrant bracing conversations with a specialist; most curves are managed with structured exercise and monitoring
- Adults with residual kyphosis focus on extension strength, mobility, and load management — pain correlates poorly with curve size and responds to conditioning
Natural healing options we use
- Chiropractic care for mobility of the stiffened segments
- Extension-focused strengthening (back extensors, scapular muscles)
- Hamstring and pec flexibility work
- Sport and posture coaching for the growing athlete
About imaging
Standing full-spine X-rays diagnose and track it. Repeat intervals depend on growth remaining and curve size.
Daily self-care
- Daily extension exercises and stretching program
- Break up sitting; set up school/desk ergonomics
- Stay athletic — activity is protective, not dangerous, within a sensible plan
How we can help
More in Mid-Back & Ribs
Thoracic Sprain/StrainRib Joint DysfunctionCostochondritisThoracic Outlet SyndromeIntercostal NeuralgiaUpper Crossed / Postural SyndromePostural Hyperkyphosis
Please read: this page is education, not a diagnosis. A proper examination is how a condition gets confirmed and a plan gets built. See our medical disclaimer.