Hyperkyphosis in Postmenopausal Women: A Narrative Review

With advancing age, women experience changes in body posture, with thoracic hyperkyphosis being one of the most common. Although the etiology associated with the abnormal increase in curvature of the thoracic region of the spine is not yet completely understood, several risk factors appear to contribute to its manifestation, including advanced age, osteoporosis, vertebral fractures, sarcopenia, and limited physical activity levels. Understanding these factors is crucial for developing effective strategies to prevent and manage this condition, with physical exercise emerging as a particularly promising intervention. Recognizing the potential complications associated with this condition, such as chronic pain, functional limitations, increased risk of falls and fractures, and the negative impact on women’s quality of life, also highlights the importance of delaying this condition. This review aims to analyze the prevalence of thoracic hyperkyphosis in postmenopausal women and identify the risk factors and possible adverse health impacts associated with it. It is also intended to identify the methods used to assess the thoracic kyphosis angle and evaluate its progression and the effectiveness of interventions, with a focus on exploring the effect of physical exercise in this condition.