What Is Scheurmann’s Disease?

Scheurmann’s Disease is a skeletal condition that usually begins in adolescence in which the vertebrae grow unevenly, resulting in wedge-shaped vertebrae and a hunched back. It is also known as juvenile kyphosis and curvature of the spine.

Symptoms of scheurmann’s disease

The most common symptoms for patients with an abnormal kyphosis are the appearance of poor posture with a hump appearance of the back or “hunchback”, back pain, muscle fatigue, and stiffness in the back. Most often, these symptoms remain fairly constant and do not become progressively worse with time.

In more severe situations, the patient may notice their symptoms worsening with time. The kyphosis can progress, causing a more exaggerated hunchback.

Suggestions For Managing Scheurmann’s Disease

• Staying active as advised by your Osteopath.
• Commencing a postural strengthening and stretching program as advised by one of the Osteopaths at Premier Health Partners.
• Rest for aggravating activity (no prolonged sitting/slouching).
• Placing a lumbar roll behind your back while sitting, we recommend placing it vertically between the shoulder blades.
• Your Osteopath may also recommend Massage Therapy to assist in the management of your pain and stiffness.
• Your practitioner may refer you to a Sports Physician for further investigations if your Scheurmann’s Disease does not respond in our suggested time frames, especially if there is pain associated.