At what age does Scheuermann's kyphosis usually begin?

At what age does Scheuermann's kyphosis usually begin?

• A. 8-9 years
• B. 14-16 years
• C. 10-12 years
• D. 18-20 years

Answer: (C)

It typically begins during early adolescence, around ages 10 to 12, which coincides with the rapid growth spurt in the spine. During this rapid growth, the thoracic vertebrae can wedge anteriorly, leading to a kyphotic curve characteristic of Scheuermann's kyphosis. Because this onset is strongly tied to that early teenage growth period, the 10–12 years range is the most consistent with how the condition usually presents. Onset earlier (8–9) is less common, while onset in later adolescence or adulthood (14–16, 18–20) is less typical, though progression can continue as growth occurs.

It typically begins during early adolescence, around ages 10 to 12, which coincides with the rapid growth spurt in the spine. During this rapid growth, the thoracic vertebrae can wedge anteriorly, leading to a kyphotic curve characteristic of Scheuermann's kyphosis. Because this onset is strongly tied to that early teenage growth period, the 10–12 years range is the most consistent with how the condition usually presents. Onset earlier (8–9) is less common, while onset in later adolescence or adulthood (14–16, 18–20) is less typical, though progression can continue as growth occurs.