Scheuermann’s Disease is a spinal growth condition that causes the upper back to curve more than normal, creating a rounded or hunched appearance. It usually develops during adolescence, when the spine is still growing. The condition affects the thoracic spine (upper back) and is caused by irregular growth of the vertebrae, where the front of the bones grow slower than the back, leading to a wedge shape and creating a kyphotic (rounded) posture.

An analogy…

Imagine stacking building blocks. If some blocks are wedge-shaped instead of flat, the stack will start to bend forward. That’s what happens in Scheuermann’s Disease, a few vertebrae grow unevenly, and the spine curves more than it should.

What causes Scheuermann’s Disease?

In a healthy spine, vertebrae are shaped like rectangles and stack evenly. In Scheuermann’s Disease, several vertebrae grow into wedged shapes, usually during a growth spurt. This causes the spine to curve forward abnormally. It can also lead to tight chest muscles, weak back muscles, and stiff spinal joints. The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but genetics and mechanical stress during growth are believed to play a role.

What are the signs and symptoms of Scheuermann’s Disease?

• A visibly rounded or hunched upper back
• Poor posture that doesn’t fully straighten when trying to “sit up tall”
• Back pain or stiffness, especially after sitting or standing for long periods
• Muscle fatigue in the upper back
• Tight hamstrings or chest muscles
• In severe cases, pain may radiate to the ribs or lower back
• Symptoms usually appear between ages 12 and 17

What tests are used to diagnose Scheuermann’s Disease?

Postural assessment: Practitioner observes spinal alignment and posture

X-ray: Shows wedge-shaped vertebrae, increased kyphosis, and irregular endplates

How long does Scheuermann’s Disease take to heal?

Scheuermann’s is a growth-related condition, not an injury, so treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving posture and strength. With proper care, most teens can reduce pain and prevent progression. Once growth stops, the curve usually doesn’t get worse, but postural habits and spinal strength remain important for long-term health.

How does Scheuermann’s Disease happen?

• Genetic predisposition
• Rapid growth during puberty
• Prolonged poor posture or spinal load during development
• Muscle imbalances (tight front, weak back)
• Repetitive heavy lifting during early teenage years
• Lack of spinal mobility or strength

What treatment can help Scheuermann’s Disease?

• Postural education and ergonomic support
• Manual therapy to reduce joint stiffness
• Soft tissue work to release tight muscles
• Stretching for the chest, hips, and hamstrings
• Strengthening for the core and upper back
• Clinical Pilates or guided exercise programs
• Bracing (in some moderate cases during growth)
• Referral to a specialist if curve is severe

What exercises or stretches can I do for Scheuermann’s Disease?

• Wall posture holds
• Thoracic extensions over a foam roller
• Pec and hip flexor stretches
• Hamstring stretches
• Shoulder blade squeezes
• Core stability exercises

What products can help with a Scheuermann’s Disease?

• Trigger Ball
• KT Pilates Band Pack