What is Scheuermann's disease?
Scheuermann's disease, also known as Scheuermann's disease or juvenile kyphosis, is a growth disorder of the spine. It usually occurs in adolescents between the ages of 9 and 18 and leads to a wedge-shaped deformation of the vertebral bodies, particularly in the thoracic spine. This results in increased kyphosis in the thoracic region, i.e. an increased curvature of the spine. In adulthood, this can lead to chronic back pain, a hunched back and limited mobility as well as osteochondrosis.
Causes, development and risk factors of Scheuermann's disease
The exact cause of Scheuermann's disease is not yet fully understood. A combination of genetic and mechanical factors is suspected. Some risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing Scheuermann's disease are
- (Rapid) growth: The disease usually develops during puberty, when bone growth is particularly rapid. The growth stress can cause the susceptible vertebral bodies to deform more easily.
- Incorrect posture: For example, frequent sitting in a bent position can increase the pressure on the front part of the vertebral bodies. In the long term, this can lead to a wedge shape of the vertebrae.
- Lack of exercise: An inactive lifestyle and weak back muscles can also increase the risk of Scheuermann's disease, as the spine is less well supported and stabilized.
- Occupational or sporting strain: Sports or activities that put a lot of strain on the spine can also increase the risk.
- Injuries to the spine: Recurrent micro-injuries or overloading of the spine, which can occur during intensive sport or heavy physical work, are also considered risk factors.
Can Scheuermann's disease be prevented?
There is no known specific prevention for Scheuermann's disease, but good posture and regular back exercises can reduce the risk of spinal curvature. Early physiotherapeutic measures can help to stabilize the spine and prevent excessive curvature.
Symptoms and signs of Scheuermann's disease
Scheurmann's disease initially begins without pain. The disease manifests itself visibly as a hunchback in the thoracic spine. In the region of the lumbar spine, the shape of the spine becomes increasingly flattened. As the condition progresses, back pain occurs, which intensifies with exertion and subsides at rest. This can also result in restricted movement in everyday life. Once the growth phase is complete, the pain subsides and tension can occur in adulthood.
What to do with Scheuermann's disease
To diagnose Scheuermann's disease, an X-ray is taken, a physical examination is carried out and the patient's medical history is taken (anamnesis).
Therapy for Scheuermann's disease
The prognosis for Mobus Scheuermann's disease is generally very good.
The disease does not necessarily have to cause pain and its course can be positively influenced.
The choice of therapy depends on the severity of the hunchback. The therapy focuses on physiotherapy to strengthen the back muscles and improve posture. In the case of severe curvatures, a corset or special back orthoses can be prescribed to straighten the spine and stabilize it in its physiological position. In rare cases, i.e. in the case of pronounced misalignment, surgical correction may be necessary.
Lifestyle adjustments also have a beneficial effect: Compressions of the spine, for example during sport, should be avoided. In addition, Scheuermann's patients should not remain in a hunched-back posture for long and should ensure they sit as upright as possible.
Late effects of Scheuermann's disease
In the long term, Scheuermann's disease can lead to long-term consequences that also affect the ability to work and quality of life: These include chronic back pain, particularly in sedentary jobs or in activities that are physically demanding. Scheuermann's disease also often leads to an uneven load on the spine. This increases the risk of herniated discs and degenerative changes in this area. If nerves are also constricted, this wear and tear process can lead to severe pain and neurological problems such as numbness or tingling. Other possible late effects of Scheuermann's disease:
- Increasing kyphosis, decreasing lung volume: An increasingly hunched back (hyperkyphosis) can also impair breathing in the long term. This not only leads to a poorer oxygen supply and a more rapid feeling of exhaustion, but also to psychological stress.
- Osteochondrosis: Scheuermann's disease promotes premature overloading of the intervertebral discs and vertebral bodies due to the altered spinal structure. This overloading can promote the development of osteochondrosis. The intervertebral disc tissue then loses height and elasticity. This leads to overloading of the vertebral bodies and a reaction of the bone, which is often accompanied by bony growths (osteophytes) and compaction of the bone.
- Early osteoarthritis: Due to the permanent misalignment and one-sided strain, Osteoarthritis can develop early in those affected. Osteoarthritis can lead to painful inflammation. If mobility is impaired, this can in turn limit the ability to work.
Which doctor treats Scheuermann's disease?
Scheuermann's disease is usually diagnosed and treated in orthopaedic practices. Orthopaedists specialize in diseases of the musculoskeletal system and can initiate targeted therapy. If necessary, other specialists and physiotherapists or, in severe cases, spinal surgeons are consulted.
Products from medi for Scheuermann's disease
Spinomed back orthoses can be a useful addition to other therapy components. The biofeedback principle reminds patients to adopt a more upright posture. This can help to improve quality of life
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