What causes a widow’s (dowager’s) hump?
We will describe what causes a widow’s (dowager’s) hump.
What is it?
A widow’s (dowager’s) hump – or hyperkyphosis – is an excessive curvature of the spine. Usually this occurs in the thoracic (chest) part of the spinal column. Often it is also simply called kyphosis, which means a forward curvature of the spine.
It is very common and affects two out five people above the age of 55 years, women more than men.
Post menopausal women (and some older men) develop osteoporosis (bone thinning). When this is aggravated by poor, stooped posture, a forward bend of the upper thoracic spine can occur.
The hump can be very marked and, once established, is fixed – with older ladies (and some men) ending up looking at their toes.
But what actually causes the hump?
Before the menopause womens’ bones are strong. After the menopause, osteoporosis occurs and that leads to wedge shaped compression fractures. See below.
If you have two in a row it leads to a curvature of the spine. This puts more pressure on the rest of the spine that also fractures.
Prevention may help
A good posture and exercise may help.
Chin up. Head up. Shoulders back. Chest out. Belly in. Bum in. Lumbar spine correctly curved. Legs straight – knees over centre when standing.
Standing against a wall will teach you a good posture.
Physiotherapy may help
At many GPs, you can refer yourself to a ‘first contact physio’. Ask at your GPs surgery or look on their website.
Pilates and yoga may help
Have a look in your area.
Medication may help
There is some evidence that a group of drugs called biphosphonates can prevent or treat osteoporotic fractures. It is unclear whether they can prevent this type of spinal hump, or stop it from getting any worse. Talk to your GP about them and other medication.
Summary
We have described what causes a widow’s (dowager’s) hump. We hope it has been helpful.
