NEW: Express access to COVID-19 vaccine record is now available.
Close

The MyHealth.Alberta.ca Network showcases trusted, easy-to-use health and wellness resources from Alberta Health Services and Alberta-based partner organizations. The network is led by MyHealth.Alberta.ca, Alberta’s source for consumer health information. Our partners are committed to helping Albertans better manage their health and wellbeing. Health experts across Alberta make sure that the information on these sites is accurate and up-to-date. Our partners include

Ready or Not AlbertaHealthy Parents Healthy ChildrenTeaching Sexual HealthAlberta QuitsCancer Care Alberta
VISIT MYHEALTH.ALBERTA.CA
MyHealth.Alberta.ca Network
Health Information and Tools >  Curved Upper Back
Print the content on this page Decrease the font size of content Increase the font size of content

Main Content

Top of the page

Curved Upper Back

An abnormally curved upper back, or dowager's hump, develops when the bones of the upper spine (vertebrae) become thin and brittle (known as osteoporosis) and collapse on each other. Having collapsed vertebrae in any part of the spine results in a loss of height.

When the upper spine curves, the lower back makes adjustments to keep the body in balance, which may cause muscle pain. This pain often stops in 1 or 2 years as the body adjusts to its new shape.

Current as of: October 24, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com.

© 2024 Ignite Healthwise, LLC. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Ignite Healthwise, LLC.

© 2025 Government of Alberta.
About MyHealth.Alberta.ca | Contact Us
Terms & Conditions  |  Accessibility   |  Privacy
MyHealth.Alberta.ca Network
​

Current as of: October 24, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.