Kyphoscoliosis is a condition in which the spine presents an abnormal curvature, visible both in the frontal plane (on the side) and in the sagittal plane (forward-backward). Basically it is a combination of kyphosis and scoliosis, as its name implies. Scoliosis causes the spine to curve abnormally in the frontal plane, which means that it twists laterally, in the form of the letter C, while kyphosis causes the spine to curve in the sagittal plane, giving the back a rounded (hunched) appearance.

Kyphoscoliosis can occur at any age.

The cause, most of the time is idiopathic (unknown). However, there are situations when kyphoscoliosis is formed as a result of a prolonged deficient posture or appears as a secondary manifestation in a certain conditions such as:

• Osteochondrosis, a condition that affects the growth of spinal bones, cartilage and connective tissue
• Degenerative diseases such as osteoporosis or osteoarthritis
• Neuromuscular diseases such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy
• Other congenital conditions

In mild cases, kyphoscoliosis only manifests through physical deformities such as hunchback, uneven shoulder blades, longer arm or leg on one side of the body, which most often corrects itself, while in severe cases other organs such as the lungs, heart but also nerves can be affected.

In addition to the unsightly appearance and back pain, other manifestations may occur such as:

• Fatigue
• Breathing problems
• Decreased appetite
• Feeling of weakness
• Heart or neurological problems

Treatment varies depending on several factors, such as the severity of the curvature, the ability to maintain a correct posture, age, other medical conditions as well as the impact of kyphoscoliosis on daily activities.

The orthopedic corset is useful in children and adolescents who have not completed the growth process, its main purpose being to prevent the aggravation of kyphoscoliosis. The longer it is worn, the more effective it is.

Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs are recommended for short periods of time.

Physical therapy, through corrective postures and active exercises, combined with physiotherapy and manual therapy, is the main element of the recovery process, following:

➢ Increasing the flexibility and mobility of the spine
➢ Toning the paravertebral, abdominal and buttock muscles
➢ Correction of posture
➢ Improving balance and breathing
➢ Relief of pain
➢ Reduction of paravertebral contractures and joint stiffness

It is indicated in severe forms of kyphoscoliosis, with the role of preventing its aggravation. After surgery, it is also indicated to start the physical therapy program.

➢ Evaluation of the spine by a specialist is important because in the early stages, kyphoscoliosis is easily recoverable
➢ Daily exercise helps a good development of the entire body
➢ Maintaining a correct posture throughout the day is essential.

People who spend a lot of time at the desk should have the computer at eye level to avoid bending the upper back forward, and they should also keep both elbows on the desk.
Short breaks of 10-15 minutes are indicated, in which light exercises are practiced.