SOMA Living November 2025

FROM THE DOCTOR SOME SPINE CURVES ARE HARMLESS, OTHERS AFFECT HOW YOU WALK, BREATHE AND AGE Kyphosis includes several patterns: postural, Scheuermann’s, congenital, cervical (military neck), and hyperkyphosis. They carry different risks. Slouching causes postural kyphosis, most common in teens, and exercises often correct it. Congenital kyphosis begins at birth. Scheuermann’s creates wedge-shaped vertebrae and a fixed curve. Hyperkyphosis accelerates after 40. Mild curves rarely cause harm. Severe curves, especially in older adults, can drive significant health problems: persistent back and shoulder pain, muscle stiffness and fatigue, shortness of breath from lung compression, and, in extreme cases, loss of bladder or bowel control. Clinicians screen with a forward-bending test that reveals abnormal rounding. Xrays then measure the Cobb angle. Providers label angles over 50 degrees as kyphotic. Most people do not need surgery. Conservative care often works best: physical therapy to strengthen the core and spinal extensors; posture retraining to improve daily movement; pain management; and, for adolescents with Scheuermann’s, supportive bracing. Bracing helps most while bones still grow and rarely helps adults with rigid deformities. Scoliosis and kyphosis differ. Scoliosis curves sideways into a C or S shape from a rear view. Kyphosis curves front to back and can create a hunched profile. They can occur together, but one does not cause the other. Early habits shape lifelong spinal health. Since postural and Scheuermann’s forms often emerge during adolescence, consistent screening, awareness of slouching, and regular strength work during growth years offer the best window to prevent progression and reduce future complications.

Meet the Natural Pain Relievers at South Orange Chiropractic Center Moving people from pain to wellness. Dr. Stephen Levine • Dr. Mark Roczey • Dr. Michael Chapman 60 First Street, South Orange, NJ 07079 973-761-0022 Go to SouthOrangeChiropractic.com to download our FREE E-book on Health and Wellness

email us at AtlanticConcepts@hotmail.com to schedule a free estimate www.atlantic-concepts.com (386) 344-3894 Atlantic Concepts is a family owned business that has been serving the SOMA community for over 10 years. Its founder, Eddie Cevallos and family are proud residents of Maplewood. Specializing in kitchens, bathrooms, additions, etc, Atlantic Concepts would love to hear your ideas for your projects. Please give us a call for a free estimate.

Stephen Levine D.C. South Orange Chiropractic Center SouthOrangeChiropractic.com Phone: 973.761.0022

NOVEMBER 2025 | SOMA LIVING 21

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