Hunchback: Causes and Treatment Methods

A hunchback is a widespread problem. How the unattractive “widow’s hump” can develop and what helps against it, we explain here.

What is a hunchback?

With a hunchback (“hyperkyphosis”), the thoracic spine is strongly curved backwards in the upper back region. This phenomenon is often caused by postural deformities and lack of movement. Older people (especially women) also often get a hunchback due to osteoporosis – this is why it is also called a “widow’s hump”. A hunchback can cause pain and is treated, for example, by exercises from physiotherapy, in some cases an operation is also necessary.

Causes: How does a hunchback develop?

There is more than one possible cause for a hunchback. The following triggers cause the spine to bend:

• Genetic factors: The hunchback is congenital.
• Postural defects: For example, a hollow back. Or the posture constantly tilts forward during long periods of sitting, the chest muscles shorten and pull the shoulders forward, the chin is overstretched.
• Lack of movement: e.g. due to frequent sitting and little sport.
• Diseases such as ankylosing spondylitis: In chronic inflammatory rheumatism, the spine can also become inflamed, making the back more immobile.
• Osteoporosis: In this disease, bone density decreases with age, making the vertebral bodies susceptible to fractures. The spinal column shortens and deforms, giving the back its characteristic “hump”.
• Injuries: For example, from falls or accidents.

Especially if the hunchback is caused by osteoporosis, timely treatment is important to reduce the risk of further vertebral fractures.

These symptoms affect your health when you have a hunchback

A hunchback is not only an optical problem – it can cause various complaints and can significantly affect everyday life. The following symptoms occur with a hunchback:

• Restricted mobility
• Upright posture hardly possible
• Organ functions are impaired by the curvature of the body – for example, breathing difficulties are caused by a restricted chest volume and/or cardiovascular problems.
• Mild to severe pain in the back, which can radiate into the limbs
• Depressive moods up to depression due to the optical suffering

Which treatment helps with a hunchback?

Specific exercises are the best way to prevent a progression of the hunchback and reduce pain. The abdominal and back muscles in particular are strengthened. The following measures can also often help:

• Breathing exercises to avoid shortness of breath
• Strategies for more conscious movement in everyday life
• Use of so-called medical orthoses, which correct the posture and help to stand or sit upright
• In very rare cases a surgical intervention, if other measures do not work

Hunchback exercises

The following exercises can help with hyperkyphosis, as they straighten the spine and ensure a straight posture:

• Standing back bend: Bend your knees slightly or stand up straight, stretch your chest forwards and at the same time pull your shoulders together backwards.
• Bend backwards on the stomach: Lie on the stomach, stretch and tense the legs. Arms and hands are placed close to the body, elbows pointing backwards, eyes straight down. Now the shoulders are pulled up several times and slowly lowered again.