What are the findings associated with kyphosis?

The findings associated with kyphosis typically include decreased chest expansion. This condition is characterized by an excessive outward curvature of the spine, leading to a hunchback appearance. As the spine becomes more rounded, the thoracic cavity undergoes changes, which can restrict the movement of the lungs and diaphragm. The limited expansion of the chest can lead to respiratory difficulties because the lungs may not fully expand during inhalation, resulting in a reduced capacity for gas exchange.

In contrast, increased or normal chest expansion is generally seen in healthy individuals without spinal deformities. An asymmetric thorax may occur in various pulmonary or skeletal conditions, but kyphosis itself is more directly linked to the decrease in the ability to expand the chest effectively. Furthermore, the diaphragm's position may not be normal due to the changes in spinal alignment and the subsequent effect on lung mechanics and posture.