Regional interdependence between senile kyphosis and cervical postural syndrome: a case report.

Abstract

Background: Although senile kyphosis may not be the primary reason older people seek medical attention, it can cause functional difficulties and associated health risks. Kyphotic curvature can be alleviated through conservative measures, which are also a viable option to relieve the discomfort caused by the abnormalities. This case study describes successful multimodal chiropractic treatment for senile kyphosis and cervical postural syndrome. The purpose of this manuscript is to provide evidence for the concept of regional interdependence between senile kyphosis and cervical postural syndrome. This is achieved by demonstrating the positive outcome of a multimodal chiropractic intervention performed over 24 months.

Case description: This case study involves a 60-year-old female office manager who had been suffering from neck and right shoulder pain for five years. Her family doctor diagnosed her with cervical spondylosis with cervical syndrome based on radiographic findings. She took pain medication for a year, underwent ten physiotherapy sessions and monthly massage therapy. This did not alleviate her problems, but caused her head slowly droop forward. EOS^® radiography at the first chiropractic consultation showed reverse lordosis of the cervical spine, degeneration of the C4/5, C5/6, L3/4, L4/5, and L5/S1 intervertebral discs, and marginal osteophytes. A working diagnosis of age-related hyperkyphosis and cervical postural syndrome was made based on the main symptoms and clinical findings. After a 24-month multimodal chiropractic treatment program, the corrected thoracic curvature resulted in the simultaneous remission of cervical symptoms.

Conclusions: Given the high prevalence of age-related kyphosis among non-care seeking individuals and its rehabilitation potential, early intervention in senile kyphosis may help reduce the functional burdens and associated health problems.