Can you prevent the hunched back of kyphosis?

Maintaining good bone health, posture, and ergonomics can help.

March 13, 2026

By Lynne Christensen, Staff Writer

Reviewed by Nancy Capparelli, PT, MSPT, OCS, Contributor

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Three-dimensional illustration showing a view from the side comparing a normal spine with the spine of a person with kyphosis.

You can't change your genes or stop the aging process. Still, "even if you're destined to have hyperkyphosis, you can slow down the process or reduce it to some degree," says Nancy Capparelli, a physical therapist at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Lahey Health.

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About the Author

Lynne Christensen, Staff Writer

Lynne Christensen is a staff writer who contributes articles to Harvard Health Publishing’s flagship website and its four newsletters: the Harvard Health Letter, Harvard Heart Letter, Harvard Women’s Health Watch, and Harvard Men’s Health Watch. She … See Full Bio

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About the Reviewer

photo of Nancy Capparelli, PT, MSPT, OCS

Nancy Capparelli, PT, MSPT, OCS, Contributor

Nancy Capparelli is a licensed physical therapist with more than 30 years of clinical experience. She earned her bachelor’s degree in physiological science from University of California, Los Angeles, and her master’s degree in physical therapy … See Full Bio

View all posts by Nancy Capparelli, PT, MSPT, OCS

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