Definition

Scheuermann's (shoe-er-mans) Disease is the 2nd most common cause of kyphosis; the 1st is postural kyphosis.

The Curve: When & Why

Develops during rapid growth: ages 10-15.

Rapid growth in the back of the vertebrae, with too little in the front causes wedging, and worsens the kyphosis.

Area Affected

Usually is the thoracic spine (along the ribs), but can occur in the low back (lumbar) and in the junction of the thoracic and lumbar spine (thoracolumbar).

Causes

Unknown: possibly hereditary factors, osteoporosis, or injury

Criteria for Diagnosis

• Thoracic curve > 45 degrees (normal is 20-45)
• Wedging > 5 degrees in 3 adjacent vertebrae
• Disc (cushion) spaces between the vertebrae narrow
• Thoracolumbar curve > 30 degrees (normally is straight)
• Schmorl's nodes (disc material herniating into the vertebrae)
• Rigid curvature that worsens when bending over
• Increased lumbar curve

Facts

• Approx. 1/3 of people with Scheuermann's also have scoliosis.
• Boys diagnosed twice as often as girls.
• Occurs in 4-8% of the population .