Kyphosis (from the Greek kypho, meaning “hunchbacked”) is characterized by an exaggeration of the thoracic curve of the vertebral column. In adolescents, kyphosis is often the result of infection or other disturbances of the vertebral epiphysis during growth. In adults, kyphosis may be caused by a degeneration of the intervertebral discs, which results in collapse of the vertebrae. Poor posture may also lead to kyphosis.