Sports Medicine: Scheuermann's Disease

Scheuermann’s disease is a condition of the mid-back related to the shape of the vertebrae and the curve of the spinal column. Normally, vertebrae are about the same size and rectangular-shaped. With Scheuermann’s disease, the vertebrae become wedge-shaped and a person’s posture may change. The curve in the mid-back may become very visible and can make them look like they are slouching or have very round shoulders.

Signs and Symptoms

  • poor or rounded shoulder posture
  • mid-back pain
  • humpback appearance with decreased motion of the spine

Increased Risk

  • genetic predisposition to Scheuermann’s
  • males
  • adolescents
  • poor posture and physical conditioning (strength and flexibility)
  • repeated mechanical stress to the spine

Treatment

  • Medicine can help with inflammation and pain.
    • Anti-inflammatory medicines, such as ibuprofen (Motrin® or Advil®) or naproxen (Aleve®) may be recommended. Take these as directed by your health care provider.
    • Other minor pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol®).
  • Cold and heat may be used.
    • Cold should be applied for 10 to 15 minutes every 2 to 3 hours for swelling and after any activity that makes symptoms worse. Use ice packs or an ice massage.
    • Heat may be used before performing stretching and strengthening activities prescribed by your health care provider or athletic trainer. Use a heat pack or warm soak. Apply for 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Exercises to improve range of motion, strength, and flexibility may be recommended. These can be done at home but often a referral to a physical therapist or athletic trainer may be prescribed by your health care provider.
  • If a patient is still growing, a brace is often used to reduce the curve and decrease pain.
  • Surgery may be needed in severe cases to correct the deformity.

How to Prevent

  • Do correct warm-up and stretching before practice or competition.
  • Use proper lifting and posture techniques when lifting or sitting for long periods.
  • If previously injured, avoid active physical activity that requires twisting of the body in awkward and uncontrolled positions.
  • Maintain proper conditioning, back and hamstring flexibility, muscle strength and endurance and cardiovascular fitness.
  • Maintain proper body weight

When to Call the Health Care Provider

Call your health care provider or the Sports Medicine team at (614) 355-6000 if:

  • symptoms get worse after 2 to 4 weeks, even with treatment
  • you develop numbness, weakness or loss of bowel or bladder functions
  • new, unexplained symptoms develop

 

Sports Medicine: Scheuermann's Disease (PDF)

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