Age-Related Hyperkyphosis

Posted by freak @freak, Dec 6, 2023

My dad (age 91) has what I guess is called age-related hyperkyphosis. He is very hunched over with his face parallel to the floor at all times when he is walking. I took him to the Cleveland Clinic and they said that surgery is not an option (which I agree) and braces are controversial because they can cause weakening of the muscles which make the problem worse. But they told me to look on amazon for something. The issue is that it cannot get much worse and it's not going to get better given his age. He is very self conscious about his appearance being so hunched over but doesn't know what to do. I would love to get him a brace that he could use when he goes out in the public. I got him an amazon brace but it didn't work well because he said it pushed down on his shoulders. I really need help determining what to get but don't know where to turn given that the Cleveland Clinic spine center couldn't help. Anyone know what I should do?

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windyshores | @windyshores | Dec 7, 2023

@freak does he have spinal fractures?

This may sound off the wall but I had a gentleman in my tai chi class who was bent over the way you describe. I worked with him individually as an assistant in the class. He did make some progress over time. This may not apply but it popped up in my thoughts when reading your post.

Has he worked with a physical therapist?

freak | @freak | Dec 7, 2023

They did xrays. No fractures. He went to a pt but he needs intensive help. They only do so much then your allocation runs out. It never really helped him.