Cervical Kyphosis

Abstract Kyphosis of the cervical spine can have many causes. The most common causes include degeneration of the cervical spine, infection, trauma, inflammatory diseases, tumors, and iatrogenic causes. Cervical kyphosis can be associated with myelopathy and radiculopathy, so it is important to look for signs and symptoms of spinal cord and nerve root compression as well. As the kyphosis worsens, patients can experience problems with horizontal gaze, swallowing, and even breathing. The first line of treatment for cervical kyphosis is rest and lifestyle modifications. Cervical kyphosis can cause muscular strain best treated with rest and avoidance of re-injuring the muscles and tendons. Nonsurgical treatments for cervical kyphosis also includes physical therapy and pain management procedures, and is attempted if there are no findings of sensory loss, motor weakness, bowel or bladder dysfunction, or spinal cord impingement signs. Many factors play a role in the decision-making process for surgical intervention, which include level of pain, degree of physical impairment, and the amount of cervical kyphosis present. The optimal surgical approach is not always clear but can include an anterior, posterior, or combined anterior and posterior approach.