Do these images suggest scoliosis or thoracic kyphosis (Scheuermann's disease)?
Have you considered whether these images might indicate scoliosis or thoracic kyphosis, specifically Scheuermann's disease? These photographs were captured while lying down following a cycling accident, aimed at excluding any additional injuries. The individual in question is a 27-year-old male who has been experiencing persistent discomfort in his thoracic region, combined with issues regarding a right-side hip shift and gait irregularities, along with problems in his right shoulder for several years. It appears there is a postural issue that may be influencing all these symptoms simultaneously. In my observation, the images reveal a noticeable elevation of the right hip and potential signs of scoliosis. My new physiotherapist suspects that I may be facing a thoracic kyphosis issue, though he believes it is not as severe as Scheuermann's disease, particularly as there are no indications of the wedge-shaped thoracic vertebrae typically associated with that condition. Would obtaining standing anteroposterior X-rays be necessary to confirm either diagnosis? I would appreciate your insights on this matter.
Answers (1)
2/11/2026, 11:32:43 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with some complex issues regarding your thoracic spine, hip shift, and shoulder discomfort. Based on your description, there are indicators of possible scoliosis and/or thoracic kyphosis, which may indeed be influencing your symptoms.
Main Points
- Understanding your symptoms is essential in determining if you may have scoliosis or thoracic kyphosis.
- Diagnostic imaging, such as standing X-rays, can provide valuable insight into your spine's structure and alignment.
Explanation
Scoliosis is characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, which can lead to other issues like asymmetrical shoulders and hips. Thoracic kyphosis refers to an excessive forward curvature of the upper spine, which can cause discomfort and postural changes. Scheuermann's disease is a specific cause of kyphosis that typically involves wedging of the thoracic vertebrae, but it seems your physiotherapist does not believe this is the case for you.
In your situation, there are two key factors:
- Persistent thoracic discomfort and postural issues: These might relate to a spinal deformity or muscular imbalance.
- Observation of a right-side hip shift and gait irregularities: This could suggest some degree of spinal curvature or compensation.
Next Steps
-
Get Standing Anteroposterior X-rays: These images are essential for diagnosing scoliosis or kyphosis accurately. They will help to determine the degree of curvature and any potential vertebral deformities.
-
Keep a Symptom Diary: Track your pain levels, any changes in your posture, and how your activities affect your discomfort. This information can be useful for your care team.
-
Continue Physiotherapy: Work with your physiotherapist on targeted exercises to improve posture and reduce discomfort. Discuss your symptoms and any new findings from the X-rays with them.
-
Educate Yourself about Postural Exercises: Look into gentle stretching and strengthening routines that focus on improving your spinal alignment and hip stability, as these can help alleviate some discomfort.
By following these steps, you can gain a clearer picture of what's going on and work towards improving your symptoms. Let me know if you have any further questions!
Related Questions
Managing a Cut Inside the Ear Canal
I am a 35-year-old male, weighing 180 pounds and standing 5'9", without any current medications. Last night, while trying to relieve the feeling of trapped water in my ear after a shower, I inadvertently scratched the inside of my ear with my pinky finger. Unfortunately, my finger's nail must have been sharp enough to cause a cut inside the canal, and now I'm experiencing some bleeding. The injury seems to be quite deep, which raises my concerns about applying Neosporin, as I'm unsure if it's safe to use in this area. What is the proper way to clean this cut to minimize the risk of infection?
Persistent Painful Lymph Nodes Under Jaw Since October 2024
Greetings, I’m seeking some feedback regarding ongoing issues with lymph nodes located beneath my jaw in the submandibular region. * **Timeline:** The lymph nodes first came to my attention in October 2024, coinciding with a severe throat infection, and they’ve not returned to their previous size since then. * **Characteristics:** These nodes are rounded, relatively large, and exhibit a "rubbery" feel. They are movable beneath the skin and are not adhered to surrounding tissues. * **Symptoms:** They become tender and painful upon contact. Recently, I’ve experienced additional discomfort or pain when I open my mouth wide, such as during yawning or eating. * **Context:** I also observed a small, painful ulcer inside my cheek on the same side. While I have used Modafinil sporadically in the past (with my last dose being five days ago), the lymph nodes have been enlarged for over a year now. Has anyone had experience with lymph nodes that remain enlarged or scarred for a prolonged period following an infection? Could this condition be linked to a dental problem that reoccurs, or should I be more alarmed given their persistent tenderness? I would greatly appreciate any insights or similar experiences that anyone might share. Age: 23, Male Non-smoker
Seeking Guidance: Could This Be Jaundice? Persistent Back and Neck Discomfort
I'm a 25-year-old male experiencing significant pain in my back and neck since November. Additionally, I've been dealing with intermittent stomach discomfort. Despite visiting my primary care physician several times and undergoing physical therapy, I'm left questioning whether this could be jaundice. My neck and back pain has become a constant issue, culminating in a distressing experience overall. The extent of my medical examinations has been limited to an MRI of my neck and X-rays of my upper back, along with some blood tests, including a pancreatic enzyme test, which returned normal results in December.
Considering Immunotherapy for My Mom’s Liver Cancer: A Tough Decision
My mother, aged 60, has been diagnosed with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and has endured cirrhosis for the past decade. Two years ago, she was identified with hepatocellular carcinoma. Initially, she received ablation treatments until a solitary metastasis was detected in her lung last October, which was successfully surgically removed. While there have been no further metastases since that surgery, her tumor markers have remained elevated, leading her oncologist to prescribe Sorafenib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor. Unfortunately, despite three months of this treatment, her liver tumor has continued to expand. The next potential avenue of treatment proposed is immunotherapy. At first, her doctor expressed concerns regarding her eligibility for this approach due to the fact that her cirrhosis stems from an autoimmune condition, which increases the risk of developing hepatitis in response to immunotherapy. Given that immunotherapy may be her only remaining option, we are contemplating this course of action. However, I find myself uncertain about the best path forward. Should we allow the cancer to progress when her liver function is severely compromised, even though she manages to carry out her daily activities? Or should we proceed with immunotherapy, despite the risk of rapid deterioration due to fulminant hepatitis that may arise, potentially shortening her life even more than the cancer could?
Elevated Hemoglobin Levels
What is the highest hemoglobin level you've ever encountered? Today, I donated blood and learned that my hemoglobin was at 20.6, which they claimed is the highest they've ever recorded. Just yesterday, it was measured at 19.6. I currently have an unbearable headache and I’m quite concerned. I have a consultation with a hematologist scheduled for tomorrow morning. I've been struggling with this issue for the past two decades, and this spike in levels has heightened my anxiety. At 54 years old, I'm a compliant CPAP user and a non-smoker, weighing 225 pounds, but these recent numbers are troubling me.