Kyphosis 45°. When the "roundness" of the upper spine increases past 45° it is called kyphosis or "hyperkyphosis". Scheuermann's kyphosis is the most classic form of hyperkyphosis and is the result of wedged vertebrae that develop during adolescence. The cause is not currently known and the condition appears to be multifactorial and is seen more frequently in males than females. In the sense of a deformity, it is the pathological curving of the spine, where parts of the spinal column lose some or all of their lordotic profile. This causes a bowing of the back, seen as a slouching posture. While
Aging in dogs Aging in dogs Aging in dogs ("Canis lupus familiaris") varies from breed to breed, and affects the dog's health, physical ability and life expectancy. As with humans, advanced years often bring changes in a dog's ability to hear, see and move about easily. Skin condition, appetite and energy levels often degrade with geriatric age, and medical conditions such as cancer, renal failure, arthritis, dementia, and joint conditions, and other signs of old age may appear. The changes in care often required by an older dog may lead a non-experienced owner to release the animal to a shelter or rescue organization.