What is Scheuermann’s disease?
Scheuermann's disease is a condition that leads to an increase in the spinal curvature of your thoracic spine, also known as kyphosis.The condition isn’tin fact a disease but actually a type of Osteochondrosis in the spine.
Why and when does Scheuermann’s disease happen?
The actual cause of the Osteochondrosis condition is unknown although there is certain genetic and hormone links. What is known is that the condition is more prevalent in boys than girls and often is not diagnosed until later in life. The condition normally occurs between the ages of 13 and 16 when the body is going through rapid and sudden growth spurts. Osteochondrosis in the spine causes a defect in the secondary ossification centres of the vertebral bodies affecting the growth and development of the spine. The stunted growth causes the vertebrae to grow into a wedge shape instead of a block. This may be restricted to a couple of the vertebral bodies but has been known to affect the entire thoracic spine and even portions of the lumbar spine.
What does Scheuermann’s disease feel like?
Your child will normally complain of severe and sudden upper back pain and stiffness during periods of rapid growth spurts this will be aggravated by sporting activities. Occasionally patients don’t experience any pain at all, in these cases the first notable sign will be very poor posture. The kyphosis will start to increase causing your child to slouch, their shoulders will slump forward and their low back will excessively arch backwards in compensation. Occasionally cases will be mild and won’t produce any symptoms; these cases will most likely not be diagnosed until well into adulthood. Neurological, cardiovascular and respiratory symptoms are rare but can occur.
How is Scheuermann’s disease diagnosed?
Your GP or therapist will be able to diagnose you by both listening to your history and examining you. X-rays will be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and evaluate the extent of the condition.
What treatment is available for Scheuermann’s disease?
Whilst your child is going through these painful growth spurts it is advisable for them to refrain from any aggravating sporting activities. Carrying heavy weights, in particular heavy school rucksacks should be avoided as should any activities that encourage bad posture or that stress the upper back. In some circumstances your child will be prescribed a back brace. These measures are to minimise the damage to the vertebrae and prevent further injury. Once the painful growth period has finished it is important to take measures to strengthen your child’s posture. Many people find manipulative therapies such as physiotherapy, chiropractic and osteopathy to help mobilise the stiffened upper back joints and massage therapies such as Bowen technique and massage to loosen any tight postural muscles. The therapist will be able to prescribe rehabilitative exercises that will help strengthen the core postural muscles. Yoga and Pilates can also be extremely helpful in strengthening the back for long term support.In a small number of cases conservative management is unsuccessful; in these cases surgical intervention may be required.