Thoracic KyphosisThoracic kyphosis is a condition with a sliding scale that refers to the abnormal curvature of a person’s spine. Those with severe thoracic kyphosis see a more pronounced curve in their mid-spine, often resulting in what’s commonly known as a “hunchback.” More frequently, however, kyphosis is moderate, causing people to develop poor posture or chronic back pain.

No matter what degree of thoracic kyphosis a person is afflicted with, it’s important to correct it. Kyphosis is often the first link in a chain of chronic spinal conditions. If dealt with accordingly, a person can save themselves years of pain and discomfort by avoiding spinal subluxations and kyphosis-induced conditions.

At Ideal Spine Health Center, we treat thoracic kyphosis patients throughout Boise, ID through a method called compression extension traction.

What is compression extension traction?

Traction is an application of chiropractic that deals with supporting the spine in its ideal position. For someone with kyphosis, this means supporting the spine in its natural “S” curve, as opposed to the hunched posture that may be normal for a patient. By instigating better posture and holding this position, the spine is slowly trained to reset to the ideal shape.

Chiropractors utilizing the approach and guidelines laid down by Chiropractic BioPhysics (CBP) often approach kyphosis traction via a method called “compression extension.” While the term may sound like an oxymoron, it’s actually named for the concurrent forces being exerted during this special kind of traction.

Using a Denneroll – a product designed to provide targeted support for the different curvatures of the spine – patients undergoing compression extension traction will simultaneously push their chest outward, while pulling their head and neck back. The result is compression to offset the overextended areas of the spine causing kyphosis, as well as extension for the neck and head to facilitate a proper “S” curve.

A twofold approach to kyphosis treatment

Kyphosis is a spinal condition that needs long-term correction. Without re-training the spine to adopt a healthier curvature, it may revert to a hunchback posture. This can quickly negate the adjustments of a chiropractor and invite other spinal problems to take shape. This is why CBP-trained chiropractors so frequently rely on compression extension traction.

Compression extension traction not only acclimates the thoracic spine with proper posture, it also supports this transition in the cervical spine as well. Without supporting the cervical spine in tandem with the thoracic spine, traction may only be half as effective. It’s this emphasis on extension in the cervical spine that encourages a more permanent migration for the thoracic spine over the course of treatment.

This “push and pull” methodology is what makes CBP traction different from general chiropractic approaches. Most traction is concerned solely with extension, to alleviate compression. But, when you consider the natural flex of the spine, where extension occurs it must be offset by compression elsewhere. Compression extension traction takes this into account, applying both concepts to the spine in their proper areas. Adjusting on two fronts enables chiropractors to affect change quicker, with more lasting results.

Keeping kyphosis in check

If your posture is a little stooped or you’ve been diagnosed with kyphosis formally, traction may just be the way to reset your spine and improve your posture prospects. Ideal Spine Health Center wants to introduce Boise, ID kyphosis patients to compression extension traction and the CBP approach that incorporates it! Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

Chiropractic BioPhysics, or CBP, is one of the most scientific, researched, and results-oriented corrective care techniques. CBP-trained chiropractors aim to realign the spine back to health, eliminating nerve interference and addressing the source of pain, fatigue, and disease. As with all chiropractic care, CBP is gentle, painless, and non-invasive.