Postural Kyphosis is a common condition for all

Sedentary lifestyles, poor posture, slouching over our desks and daily electronic gadgets can cause an unhealthy spine and the condition Postural Kyphosis.

“Hunch back” is a term used to describe the posture position when a person’s upper body rounds forward with their shoulders creating the image of a “hunch”.

It’s common to see this in desk workers, breastfeeding mothers, kids and teens on screens and the elderly. Sometimes, it is an inherited genetic postural pattern.

Kyphosis cannot be cured but it can be treated. Osteopaths treat Kyphosis or an excessively flexed spine by releasing tight structures around the area, and may then use gentle joint manipulation to restore movement to the rib and spinal joints to improve fluid drainage and pain.

Dr Rachel Perry said that for some patients diagnosed with Kyphosis, osteopaths often noticed fluid congestion or puffiness at the base of the neck where it meets the shoulders.

“Patients may be conscious of this too.”

Movement of the thoracic spine and rib cage (thorax) is important for optimum health as the thorax acts as a pumping mechanism in moving fluid around the body as well as expanding to allow for optimal breathing mechanics.

“Correcting muscular imbalances and posture education – learning how to sit and stand correctly – can help correct Postural Kyphosis in young and older bodies,” Dr Perry said.

“Massage can also relieve stiffness and tension in the upper back and neck.”

Strengthening exercises and stretches for the shoulders and upper back are also recommended. Considerations should be made to improve workstations if a job requires prolonged standing or sitting.

There are some simple exercises that can be done at home to relieve tightness in the chest from poor posture.

Start with rolling up a towel. The trick is to ensure the towel is rolled up tightly to about the size of a fist. Then slowly lay the spine vertically along the towel, keeping the knees bent and place a pillow under the head for comfort.

Alternatively, a foam roller can also be used. This exercise should not be painful. If it is painful then loosen the towel or lay flat on a softer surface like carpet or a bed. Place arms out to the side with palms turned up and take five-25 long, deep, slow breaths allowing the scapulas to soften either side of the towel and open through the chest. Let gravity stretch the muscles of the chest and shoulders.

For a stronger release place the towel horizontally across your middle back, keeping the knees bent and always breathing. Remember to always breathe slowly and deeply into when stretching.

For further information and osteo recommendations follow @sequenceosteo on Instagram.

Don’t forget to always stretch gently and slowly to avoid tears and strains. No sudden or jerky movements and don’t force it.

If anyone suspects they have Postural Kyphosis, visit Sequence Osteopathy for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan, with knowledgeable and experienced practitioners. Mention this article for $10 off an initial treatment at the local clinic.

Book online at sequenceosteo.com.au, or phone 5261 5766.