Scheuermann disease

Scheuermann disease is a condition of unknown aetiology that affects the developing intervertebral disc, typically in the thoracic spine, and is associated with kyphosis of the spine.

Younger patients who are skeletally immature should be referred to an orthopaedic surgeon for assessment and bracing if required.

In most cases, radiographic findings of Scheuermann disease (endplate irregularity and Schmorl nodes in the thoracic vertebrae) are identified during investigation for back pain. However, the relationship between these findings and back pain is uncertain and likely to be weak. There are no specific treatments for Scheuermann disease and management is as for nonspecific thoracic spine pain. If kyphosis is severe, or associated with respiratory compromise, surgery may be warranted.