Scheuermann's kyphosis, also known more generally known as Scheuerman's Disease is condition developed during adolescence in the thoracic spine. The condition amplifies the normal kyphotic curve of the thoracic spine, giving the appearance of a hump. Severity differs from patient to patient and mostly occurs in males. The disease is named for the Danish orthopedic surgeon, Holgel Werfel Scheuermann, who first described it.
The curve is created by the accumulated malformation of the vertebral bodies, which grow faster in the posterior portion and slower in the anterior portion, during the adolescent growth spurt. The intervertebral discs also become wedge shaped to accommodate the misshaped vertebrae.
Surgical intervention with a strong physical therapy regime can help these patients.