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Hyperkyphosis & Scheuermann’s Disease

physical therapist guiding an adult patient in a floor Schroth exercise on a mat

Stand taller, with less strain through the neck and upper back.

Spinal conditions go beyond scoliosis. Hyperkyphosis and Scheuermann’s disease are two common posture-related concerns, affecting alignment, breathing, mobility, and confidence. We focus on restoring balance and posture through individualized, evidence-based corrective exercise.

What is Hyperkyphosis?

Hyperkyphosis is excessive forward rounding of the upper back. While some curvature is normal, pronounced kyphosis can cause:

  • Difficulty standing tall or sitting upright for long periods

  • Breathing restrictions from a compressed chest cavity

  • Muscle fatigue and pain in the upper and mid-back

  • Self-consciousness or reduced confidence due to posture

What is Scheuermann’s Disease?

Scheuermann’s disease is a structural condition that develops in adolescence, causing vertebrae to become wedge-shaped and creating a rigid, pronounced kyphosis. Unlike postural rounding, it does not improve with stretching and needs targeted correction.

HOW IT RELATES TO SCOLIOSIS

Hyperkyphosis and Scheuermann’s disease may occur alone or with scoliosis, which increases spinal instability and mobility restrictions. Treatment must address all curve patterns to restore spinal balance.

Our Approach

We use Schroth Method principles and corrective strategies for kyphotic curves, focusing on:

  • Extension Strengthening: Building the back extensors to support upright posture

  • Postural Awareness & Alignment: Training patients to recognize and correct spinal position

  • Breathing Techniques: Using rotational breathing to expand the chest, reduce compression, and improve lung function

  • Targeted Flexibility: Stretching shortened muscles (such as hip flexors or chest) while protecting areas that are already overstretched

  • Functional Integration: Applying corrections to daily activities, sports, and strength training

Why Specialized Care Matters

These conditions need more than generic posture exercises. We design individualized programs that address both structural and functional spine needs, helping patients move better, breathe easier, and gain confidence.

physical therapist guiding a senior patient rehabilitating with walking sticks

PLAN YOUR IN-PERSON VISIT

Initial Evaluation (80 minutes): $350

Follow-Up (50 minutes): $285

Advance Purchase for 10 Follow-Ups: $2750

Have Questions? Read FAQs

Need To Talk With Us? Contact Us

Kelvin’s Story

How a teen with Hyperkyphosis went from constant mid-back pain reaching 10/10 to being pain-free, gaining strategies to better manage his condition, and improving his performance on the basketball court.

  • Schroth DC equipment in the Fairfax, VA clinic