Which term describes the forward rounding of the upper back?

• A. Kyphosis
• B. Lordosis
• C. Scoliosis
• D. Spondylosis

Answer: (A)

Kyphosis is the forward rounding of the upper back, referring to the thoracic spine’s outward curvature. The thoracic spine normally has some kyphosis, but when this curvature is exaggerated it’s called hyperkyphosis. This term specifically describes the sagittal (side-view) curve in the upper back, unlike lordosis, which is the inward curve of the lower back; scoliosis, which is a sideways curvature; and spondylosis, which denotes degenerative changes in the spine. So for the forward rounding of the upper back, kyphosis is the correct term. In practice, you’d assess posture and may look for signs of excessive thoracic rounding, which can be related to factors like poor posture, osteoporosis, or certain conditions, and management focuses on posture correction and back-strengthening exercises.