What is the Scheuermann's Disease ?
Scheuermann’s disease is a spinal growth dystrophy or more simply a disease of the vertebrae that develops during growth. The vertebral bodies are more fragile and vulnerable, and mechanical stress causes irregularity in bone contours and deformation of the vertebral bodies. It develops at the beginning of puberty, around 11 years old in girls and 13 years old in boys. Boys are more often affected than girls, and it seems to have a genetic component to this disease.
Most often, Scheuermann’s disease affects the spine at the thoracic level, causing pain between the shoulder blades and in the lower back (dorsal hyperkyphosis). The vertebrae are called “wedge-shaped” and are no longer rectangular. In most cases, it is a benign disease. However, in 5 to 10% of cases, this growth disease deserves particular attention because the deformed spine can leave lifelong consequences. Nodules may form within the vertebral bodies themselves: “Schmorl’s nodules”.
Like all growth-related diseases, the origin is unknown. Tall, lanky individuals are more affected than others. The practice of sports is sometimes mentioned, heavy school bags are also among the causes, but in reality the causes are not yet fully known. Although it is a growth disease, some people are not diagnosed until later, after 30/40 years. In these cases, the disease remained asymptomatic, silent, and was only detected when the first symptoms appeared.
Should I see a physiotherapist?
If pain appears, you should consult. In physiotherapy, postural re-education (RPG, muscle chains…) seems particularly adapted. The physiotherapist will try to correct posture by performing stretches that will restore suppleness to the spine and strengthen certain muscle groups. In more severe cases, it will be put in place, together with the doctor and orthopedist, an orthopedic treatment with the realization of a corset to reduce deformations (kyphosis or lordosis) and calm pain. In cases of painful inflammatory crises, the doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory treatment.
Our posture specialist is Laurent DANIEAU, feel free to contact us !
