Expert: Gerald Anzalone, D.C. - 8/6/2011

Question
Hello Dr. Anzalone,

My chiropractor wants me to do ten sessions on the ATM machine for my kyphotic condition. Unfortunately, insurance will not cover this treatment and I can't afford it at this time. I've asked him if there are exercises that will give me the same benefits and he said there aren't. What do you think?

Currently, I stretch my chest and hip flexors on a daily basis and do some of thos YWTL exercises but not much has improved as far as my posture goes. Also, I do hyperextensions at the gym at least two times a week.

Thanks.

Answer
Ed,

Thanks for your question.

The appropriateness of exercises for treatment of thoracic hyperkyphosis depend upon the degree of osteoporosis which may be present in an individual. A 1984 study published in the journal Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation found that in general, extension exercises (backwards bending) are preferred over flexion exercises (forwards bending) for reducing the likelihood of causing a vertebral fracture (in post-menopausal women):

http://tinyurl.com/4xh9nam

A 2008 study published in the journal Osteoporosis International found that women who performed extension exercises of the spine three times a week for one year prevented progression of their kyphosis. The authors also found that exercises which strengthen the extensor muscles of the spine can delay the progression of hyperkyphosis.

Seated exercises using an exercises band for treating hyperkyphosis can include ones similar to these:

http://tinyurl.com/3kq37qx

For an excellent discussion on performing spinal extension exercises, I recommend the patient-oriented book Treat Your Own Back by Robin McKenzie, PT:

http://tinyurl.com/2vwnmm

Before beginning any self-directed exercises, however, I recommend that you speak with your primary care physician, who may wish to direct you to a physical therapist first.

I hope that this helps to answer your question.