Osteoporosis-related kyphosis. The most common cause of kyphosis in adults is from vertebral fracture due to osteoporosis. This can occur in both men and women, but is more common in females than in males.2 As osteoporosis weakens the vertebral bones in the spine, the vertebrae are susceptible to fracture that typically occurs in a wedge shape – with the front of the vertebra collapsing and losing its height and the back of the vertebra maintaining its height. As the front of the bone is crushed, that segment of the spine tips forward, resulting in an excessive kyphotic curve and forward stooped posture. Treatment typically will address the underlying osteoporosis (to prevent future fractures) as well as pain reduction and possibly surgical repair of the fracture. - http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/spinal-deformities/ky...

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The thoracic, or mid portion of the spine, normally has a kyphotic curve. The curves of the spine are usually measured in degrees. A thoracic kyphosis is normal when measured at 20-40 degrees. The cervical spine (neck) and lumbar spine (lower back) have "lordotic" curves that face the opposite direction - like a backward "C". - http://umm.edu/programs/spine/health/guides/cervical-kyphosi...

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