Unlocking the Mystery of Neck Pain: The Curious Case of Thoracic Kyphosis

We often hear about the importance of maintaining good posture, and how it can impact our overall health. But have you ever wondered how the curvature of your upper back, known as thoracic kyphosis, might be related to neck pain and discomfort? A recent study has delved into this intriguing question and the findings are illuminating.

The Backstory: Investigating Thoracic Kyphosis and Neck Pain

For years, researchers have been curious about the role thoracic kyphosis plays in neck pain and related issues. Some believe that an exaggerated curvature in the upper back might contribute to neck pain, disability, and even affect our ability to control our movements and senses.

However, up until now, a comprehensive investigation into the connection between thoracic kyphosis and neck pain was lacking. This recent study aimed to fill that gap by using a case-control design, comparing individuals with non-specific chronic neck pain.

Breaking Down the Study

Here are the key details of the study:

• Participants: The study included 80 individuals with significant thoracic kyphosis (the upper back curvature) and 80 matched participants with normal thoracic kyphosis. The participants were similar in age and the duration of neck pain.
• Types of Kyphosis: Researchers further divided the hyper-kyphosis group into two distinct types: postural kyphosis (PK) and Scheuermann's kyphosis (SK).
• Measurements: Various measurements were taken to assess posture, sensorimotor control, and autonomic nervous system function. These included the thoracic kyphosis angle, craniovertebral angle (CVA), smooth pursuit neck torsion test (SPNT), overall stability index (OSI), and more.

Findings: The Curious Connections

The study uncovered several significant findings:

1. Neck Disability: Participants with hyper-kyphosis had significantly greater neck disability compared to those with normal kyphosis. Among the hyper-kyphosis group, those with Scheuermann's kyphosis reported the highest level of disability.
2. Sensorimotor Control: Statistically significant differences were identified in sensorimotor control measures between the two kyphosis groups and the normal kyphosis group. Individuals with Scheuermann's kyphosis exhibited the most decreased efficiency in these measures.
3. Autonomic Nervous System: There was a significant difference in autonomic nervous system findings related to skin sympathetic response (SSR) amplitude, indicating potential nervous system dysfunction in those with hyper-kyphosis.
4. Posture Matters: The curvature of the upper back (thoracic kyphosis) was closely related to forward head posture (CVA). Those with Scheuermann's kyphosis had the smallest CVA.
5. Correlations: The study found strong correlations between thoracic kyphosis and several measured variables, especially in the postural kyphosis group.

Unlocking the Implications

So, what do these findings mean for all of us?

This study shines a spotlight on the potential link between thoracic kyphosis and neck pain. It suggests that individuals with exaggerated upper back curvature may be at a higher risk of neck pain and related problems. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of maintaining good posture and the potential impact of postural kyphosis on overall well-being.

While this research provides valuable insights, it's important to remember that every individual is unique. If you're experiencing neck pain or discomfort, consulting a healthcare professional is essential to understand your specific situation and find appropriate solutions.

In the meantime, consider this a friendly reminder to pay attention to your posture and take steps to support your neck and upper back health. Your body will thank you for it! 

Measuring posture, including your thoracic kyphosis is a part of our evaluation of every patient we see in our practice. If you would like us to examine your posture and determine if it is having an effect on your neck pain, make an appointment today!

Stay curious, stay healthy!