The upper back naturally curves outwards when viewed from the side. Kyphosis is commonly used to describe an excessive version of this curve, also called hyperkyphosis.
An increased curve can be flexible and related to posture, or structural because the shape of the vertebrae has changed. This distinction matters: improving muscle control is different from treating a rigid deformity.
Some people have little discomfort, while others experience pain, fatigue or difficulty standing upright. Treatment aims to address the cause and its effects rather than remove all natural spinal curvature.
Different Types of Kyphosis
Postural Kyphosis
Postural kyphosis often becomes noticeable during adolescence. The rounded position is usually flexible and can improve when the person changes posture.
It does not involve the same fixed vertebral changes as structural kyphosis. Assessment helps establish whether posture explains the appearance or another condition needs investigation.
Scheuermann's Kyphosis
In Scheuermann's disease, several vertebrae develop a wedge-like shape rather than maintaining a more rectangular profile. The resulting curve is usually more rigid.
Simply standing straighter does not correct these bone changes. Pain can occur around the curve or in areas working harder to compensate for it.
Congenital Kyphosis
Congenital kyphosis develops because parts of the spine formed abnormally before birth. It may progress as a child grows and needs specialist follow-up.
Its management differs from ordinary postural rounding; some children require early surgical assessment.
Kyphosis Associated with Ageing or Fractures
In adults, osteoporosis-related vertebral compression fractures and degenerative changes can increase forward curvature. A loss of height or newly worsening stoop may therefore warrant a bone-health assessment.
Not every older person with a rounded back has the same underlying problem.
Symptoms That Deserve Assessment
Arrange assessment for a visibly increasing curve, persistent back pain, reduced standing tolerance or difficulty with ordinary activities. A change that develops after an injury also needs investigation.
Severe deformity can occasionally affect breathing or compress neural structures. New weakness, difficulty walking or unexplained changes in sensation should not be dismissed as posture.
New bladder or bowel dysfunction with back symptoms requires emergency assessment. Sudden severe back pain in someone with osteoporosis may indicate a fracture and needs prompt medical review.
How Is Kyphosis Diagnosed?
Examination assesses the curve, its flexibility, spinal tenderness and overall balance. The clinician may check strength, sensation and reflexes and ask about growth, previous injuries and medications affecting bone health.
Standing side-view X-rays help measure the curve and identify vertebral wedging or fractures. MRI may be appropriate when neurological symptoms, an unusual presentation or another suspected problem requires investigation.
A bone density test may be recommended when osteoporosis is relevant. Treatment planning considers age, curve progression, symptoms and the condition of the spine rather than appearance alone.
Non-Surgical Kyphosis Treatment
Monitoring and Physiotherapy
A mild, stable curve may need observation rather than active correction. During growth, planned reviews can identify changes that affect treatment choices.
Physiotherapy may improve back strength, flexibility and comfort. For a flexible postural curve, work on movement and postural control can help the person stand more upright.
Exercise does not reshape mature wedged vertebrae or guarantee that a structural curve will stop progressing. It can still support function when the underlying bone shape remains unchanged.
Bracing During Growth
A spinal brace may be considered for selected growing patients with Scheuermann's kyphosis. Remaining growth, curve size and flexibility influence whether it is likely to help.
The brace needs specialist fitting, a prescribed wearing schedule and regular review. Its role is different from an off-the-shelf support intended simply to remind someone to adjust their posture.
Bracing should not be assumed to permanently correct a fixed adult deformity.
Pain Relief and Bone Health
Medication may help manage pain, with the choice checked against existing health conditions and other medicines.
When osteoporosis or a vertebral fracture contributes to the curve, treatment must also address bone strength and future fracture risk. Rehabilitation should account for fracture precautions rather than follow a generic back-exercise programme.
Treating osteoporosis can help protect the spine, but it does not automatically reverse an established deformity.
When Is Kyphosis Surgery Considered?
Surgery may be considered for a severe or progressive structural curve, substantial pain despite appropriate care, or neurological problems. Congenital deformities can require a different and earlier approach.
Spinal fusion is commonly used to hold a planned correction while the treated vertebrae unite. Rods and screws provide support during healing. A rigid deformity may require additional bone cuts, called osteotomies, to allow correction.
The goal is an appropriate balance between alignment, stability and function. The decision should account for bone quality, medical fitness and the extent of the proposed operation.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Non-surgical care is reviewed through changes in comfort, standing tolerance and daily function, with imaging when needed to monitor the curve.
After surgery, rehabilitation includes gradually increasing mobility while observing restrictions on lifting and demanding activity. Bone fusion develops over months, even when the wound has already healed.
Ask how school or work, driving and exercise will be reintroduced. The expected schedule should reflect the operation and your circumstances rather than a standard promise of complete recovery within a few weeks.
Risks and Treatment Limitations
Spinal surgery carries risks including infection, bleeding, blood clots and nerve or spinal cord injury. The bones may fail to fuse, implants may cause problems and pain or stiffness may persist.
Severe neurological injury can cause lasting disability. Further treatment or another operation may be necessary.
A successful correction does not make the spine completely straight or restore every movement lost through disease. The aim is to improve the clinically important problem while respecting the spine's normal curves.
Kyphosis Treatment Cost in Turkey
The cost depends on whether the plan involves assessment, physiotherapy, bracing, bone-health treatment or spinal surgery.
Request a breakdown of the recommended services. For surgery, clarify implants, hospital care, rehabilitation and follow-up; for bracing, ask about fitting and adjustments. International patients should establish how ongoing care will continue at home.
I wish to take this opportunity to thank Dr Mesut Sançmış for his kind, caring and professional approach to my long term medical issues. He very efficiently examined, tested and diagnosed my medical issues and offered treatment of arthroscopic knee surgery for the following day.
The surgery was an absolute success with my original pain now gone and the procedure stiffness subsiding daily. I can already walk and sleep better and my quality of life is improving. The constant pain etched on my face and in my daily life has gone and I can never thank him enough. He is a true gentleman and 5 star surgeon.
Trustpilot
From the very beginning, I felt that I was in good hands with Dr. Mesut Sançmis . The consultation was clear, supportive, and reassuring, which made me feel confident about moving forward. Throughout the treatment, Dr. Mesut Sançmis showed great care and professionalism, always making sure I was comfortable and informed.
The results have exceeded my expectations — my feet not only look better, but I feel more confident and at ease in my daily life. It has truly been a positive change for me, both physically and emotionally.
I am very grateful for the expertise, kindness, and attention to detail that Dr. Mesut Sançmis provided. I would gladly recommend this clinic to anyone looking for high-quality, compassionate care.
WhatClinic
The Dr was very helpful and honest and gave me my options how to go forward. Very pleased with the support. I requested injections and the Dr recommended would not help as my condition requires surgery in the near future
Google
MSM Klinik have been excellent. From the initial consultation, through the Hospital procedure and the after care absolutely fantastic. Communication about the knee procedure and the ease of making it happen with genuine concern for your welfare and recovery. Highly recommend this great Klinic. Thanks MSM
Google
I fortunately came across Dr. Mesut while researching orthopedic surgeons in Antalya after suffering a severe heel fracture in the United States. From the beginning, I was uneasy with the treatment plan proposed by my U.S. surgeon. After more than a year of being told that it was simply a “bad break” that would take time to heal, it was finally discovered that I had also severely sprained my ankle at the time of the injury, resulting in partial ligament and tendon tears that had been missed entirely.
When these tears were eventually identified, the solution I was given was ankle fusion surgery, an option that would have permanently limited my mobility. This did not sit right with me.
While in Antalya for my spouse's dental care, I had the opportunity to consult with Dr. Mesut at MSM Klinik. His team quickly arranged comprehensive testing to fully understand what was happening with my foot. Dr. Mesut confirmed the ligament and tendon damage but was very clear that ankle fusion was not the appropriate solution for my case. Through my time there, it was clear to me that he treats a wide range of complex orthopedic conditions, not just ankle cases, which gave me even more confidence in his overall experience. From our first conversation, I felt confident in his expertise. He immediately recognized the complexity of my injury, especially given that my foot had healed incorrectly over the course of more than a year and a half.
After returning to the U.S. and doing further research, I made the decision to go back to Antalya and proceed with surgery under Dr. Mesut’s care. One of the major factors in my decision was his use of stem cell therapy, an option that was never even discussed by my doctors in the United States.
From start to finish, the level of professionalism and compassion at MSM Klinik was exceptional. Everyone in the office was attentive, organized, and supportive. Eli was especially wonderful, managing all logistics and providing clear translation throughout the entire process, which made everything seamless and stress free. During my stay, I also received IV vitamin and supportive therapies at the office designed to aid healing and speed recovery.
I am now just 2.5 weeks post surgery and already able to walk at approximately 50% weight bearing. In the U.S., I would have been non-weight bearing for at least two months before even beginning this stage. My recovery has been faster and smoother than I ever expected, and everything is healing remarkably well.
Trustpilot
Near Lara/speak English/top orthopedic
Top orthopedic. We needed a hand surgeon for our son who had an accident with a knife. Great Service via WhatsApp/speak English. Modern clinic. All innovative methods. State of art Equipment. Near hotels in Lara/Kundu. Also good for international tourists.
Google
I had a bit of a medical emergency during my trip to Antalya, and I'm so glad I found this clinic. They managed to squeeze me in right away and built a care program that worked perfectly with the rest of my stay. The doctor was wonderful, and having a translator there made the whole process stress-free. I felt truly well-cared for at every appointment!
WhatClinic
Dr Mesut and the team were exceptional and delivered excellent service. My issue was well investigated and management options/plans were provided. I am well satisfied with the service and happy with the outcome. Thank you again
Google
Service was excellent. I’m forever grateful to Surgeon Mesut Sancmis for taking care of me. I’m still recovering and have a follow up coming soon but I’m confident I will recover 100%. The whole staff was very attentive and professional. Starting with the driver he was so helpful and nice assisting me with my wheelchair. Amy who was with me throughout the whole process made sure all my needs and concerns were addressed. I didn’t feel there was a language barrier because she was there to translate and facilitate all my needs. Even after discharge Dr Mesut and Amy visit me multiple times to check on me and make sure everything was going well. I highly recommend them. Dr Mesut Sancmis is an awesome surgeon I’m glad I found him and if I ever need surgery again i will choose him, I highly recommend him. Thank you 🙏🏽
Google
My wife had a knee injection at MSM Klinik in Antalya in Turkey last year. She had been suffering from severe knee pain for several years and the injection really helped her regain mobility. So, we returned to MSM Klinik this year, where she has now had a second injection, which we expect will help her sustain her ability to walk at least another six months free of pain. My wife has been referred to NHS orthopedic specialists in the UK and is waiting for their diagnosis also. Waiting times are very long still in the UK, so the assistance provided by MSM Klinik in Turkey in the meantime has been extremely helpful.
WhatClinic
I visited Antalya in early May of 2025, while experiencing acute sciatica pain going down my left leg. I got in touch with MSM Klinik and had the exam scheduled promptly after talking over the phone with the staff. I had the X-rays and MRI done very promptly at Yasam Hastanesi Life Hospital. MSM Klinik staff, Mr. Mursel, took me to the hospital and was with me there while I was getting the x-rays and MRI done. Then he drove me back to the MSM Klinik where we reviewed the results with the Doctor. The Doctor appeared very knowledgeable and offered an effective treatment plan. However, it was beyond my budget. I continued to manage my back pain with NSAID.
I'm giving 5 starts for the service and promptness, but not for any medical procedure as no medical procedure was done.
The Doctor, his assistant Mr. Murcel, and the office staff were very kind, professional and attentive to my issue, which deserves a 5 star review.
The MRI, x-rays and the consultation were reasonably priced.
Google
I couldn't recommend this clinic more!
In addition to achieving my desired results, the clinic and doctor were constantly in touch with me (both in person and by phone) and responded quickly to any questions or concerns I had. This gave me peace of mind and made the process feel much easier, while giving me confidence in it.
Google
Challenging or mild conditions require the type of specific attention provided! Dr. Mesut Sancmis Ortopedi and his entire staff are highly knowledgeable and solution focused! It is incredible to witness the difference their patient care delivers. Do you have back pain, shoulder issues, orthopedic problems, here’s your source for these and MUCH more! Please don’t hesitate to book your 1st consultation to start on the path of healing!
Google
The staff / ladies at the clinic are very professional, friendly and cute,,,, nothing is too much trouble.
Dr Mesut is also very Professional and knowledgeable, and if his treatment works successfully, which i have no doubt about, I will return annually for check overs / mot.
If not I will return just once,,,, for a refund 😂🤣
Seriously he is very very good, i totally recommend him and his team and I have experienced hospitals / clinics all over the world due to my previous life racing Speedway,,,, tge racing was fine,,,, the crashes were the problem.
01 / 14
Ratings as shown on each platform on 15 October 2026. Reviews cover a range of treatments and are the opinions of individual patients.
Accommodation
Accommodation in Antalya
Ask the team about accommodation at Ramada Plaza Antalya and the arrangements relevant to your planned stay.CONFIRM: partnership
Ramada Plaza AntalyaPartner hotel · on the cliffs, next to the old town
~10 minto the clinic
On sitesea platform
~20 minfrom the airport
Distances are approximate.CONFIRM
Everything set up for recovery
Accessible roomSpace for crutches and a wheelchair
No. Kyphosis describes increased rounding seen from the side. Scoliosis involves a sideways curve, usually with rotation. The distinction affects assessment and treatment planning.
Can Kyphosis Be Present Without Pain?
Yes. A noticeable curve can cause few symptoms. Its cause, progression and effects on function help determine whether observation or treatment is appropriate.
Can Adults Improve Without Surgery?
Yes. Strengthening, symptom management and treatment of underlying bone problems may improve daily function, even when a fixed structural curve remains.
Does a Large Curve Automatically Mean Surgery?
No. Angle is one part of the decision. Symptoms, flexibility, progression, neurological findings and overall health must also be considered.
The information on this page has been reviewed by Dr. Sançmış. It does not replace an individual medical consultation.
Enquiry
Arrange a Kyphosis Assessment in Antalya
Contact Dr. Sançmış's team about kyphosis treatment in Turkey. Share when the change became noticeable, any previous diagnosis and your questions about care.
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Orthopaedic assessment
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