Which condition involves an exaggerated posterior thoracic curve resulting in a hump at the upper back?

Kyphosis is characterized by an exaggerated posterior curvature of the thoracic spine, leading to a noticeable hump in the upper back. This condition can result from a variety of factors, including developmental issues, osteoporosis, or degenerative diseases, and often manifests with postural changes that can affect a person’s overall alignment and mobility.

The definition of kyphosis encompasses both the structural changes in the vertebrae and the physical appearance of the back, making it distinct from lordosis and hyperlordosis, which pertain to an exaggerated curvature in the lumbar region, creating an inward curve rather than an outward one. Scoliosis, on the other hand, involves a sideways curvature of the spine, which is also different from the posterior thoracic curve seen in kyphosis. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why kyphosis is the correct answer to the question regarding the condition that leads to a hump at the upper back.