Dowager’s Hump Is Not Genetic — Here’s What’s Really Causing It (And How to Fix It)

Dowager’s Hump Is Not Genetic — Here’s What’s Really Causing It (And How to Fix It)

For many people, that small hump at the base of the neck—often called a Dowager’s hump—can feel like an inevitable part of ageing or something “that runs in the family.” But here’s the truth: Dowager’s hump is not genetic. It’s a postural and lifestyle-related issue that develops over time from the way we move, sit, and carry our bodies.

At our Wellington chiropractic clinic, we see this often—and the good news is that with the right approach, you can correct it and prevent it from coming back.

🧠 What Is Dowager’s Hump?

Dowager’s hump, also known as hyperkyphosis or a cervicothoracic curvature, refers to an exaggerated rounding at the top of the spine—right where the neck meets the shoulders. It’s often accompanied by:

• A visible hump or bump at the base of the neck
• Forward head posture
• Rounded shoulders
• Neck stiffness or pain
• Tension headaches or even numbness and tingling in the arms

While it can appear in both men and women, it’s more commonly noticed in women, especially as posture habits and spinal mobility change with age.

🚫 The Myth: “It’s Just Genetic”

Let’s set the record straight: The majority of Dowager’s humps are not inherited.
There’s a difference between structural spinal changes and functional posture changes.

• Structural issues (like Scheuermann’s disease or severe osteoporosis) can have a genetic component—but these are relatively rare.
• Functional posture issues, which make up most Dowager’s humps, come from daily habits, weak postural muscles, and spinal joint dysfunction (subluxations).

In other words, this is something that develops over time from how you move—not something you’re born with.

💢 The Real Causes of Dowager’s Hump

1. Forward Head Posture

When the head sits forward of the shoulders, the upper back must curve more to balance the weight. For every 2.5cm your head moves forward, the load on your neck muscles doubles—eventually creating tension and a visible hump.

2. Weak Postural Muscles

Weak deep neck flexors, back extensors, and shoulder stabilisers make it harder for your body to maintain upright posture. Over time, your spine adapts to the imbalance.

3. Joint Dysfunction and Subluxation

When spinal joints lose their proper motion or alignment, nerve communication and muscular balance are affected. This dysfunction, called a subluxation, can accelerate postural distortion and reduce your body’s ability to self-correct.

4. Prolonged Sitting and Screen Time

Hours of phone scrolling or working at a desk keep the spine in a flexed position. Without regular movement, the body adapts to that posture—even when you’re standing.

5. Osteoporotic Changes

In some older adults, vertebral compression fractures due to osteoporosis can mimic a Dowager’s hump. But this is a different condition that needs both medical and spinal management.

🌿 The Chiropractic Connection

At Limitless Chiropractic in Wellington, we focus on identifying and correcting the underlying dysfunctions that cause posture breakdown.
Through specific chiropractic adjustments, we help restore movement to the spine, reduce subluxations, and improve the way your nervous system communicates with your body.

When combined with postural rehabilitation exercises, ergonomic coaching, and movement retraining, patients often notice:

• Better posture and alignment
• Reduced neck and shoulder tension
• Increased spinal mobility
• Improved energy and confidence

🧘‍♀️ How to Prevent or Reverse Dowager’s Hump

1. Get Assessed Early – Early detection makes correction easier. A chiropractor can evaluate your spinal alignment and posture to identify any loss of motion or curvature changes.
2. Move Regularly – Every 30 minutes of sitting, take a short movement break.
3. Strengthen Postural Muscles – Exercises like chin tucks, scapular retractions, and thoracic extensions help support upright posture.
4. Check Ergonomics – Keep screens at eye level, avoid looking down for long periods, and use supportive chairs.
5. Get Adjusted – Chiropractic adjustments help restore normal spinal motion and support healthy posture over time.

💫 The Takeaway

Dowager’s hump isn’t your destiny—and it’s definitely not genetic.
It’s a reflection of how your body adapts to daily habits and stress. With chiropractic care, posture retraining, and mindful movement, you can stand taller, move freer, and feel more confident.

If you’re noticing changes in your posture or that “hump” forming, reach out to your local chiropractor in Wellington. The sooner you address it, the easier it is to correct.

🔬 References

1. Kado DM et al. Hyperkyphotic posture predicts mortality in older community-dwelling men and women: a prospective study. J Am Geriatr Soc. 2004;52(10):1662–1667.
2. Harrison DE et al. Changes in sagittal spinal alignment following chiropractic treatment for hyperkyphosis: a case series. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2002;25(5):318–325.
3. Briggs AM et al. Thoracic kyphosis: normal values and associated factors in older adults. Spine. 2007;32(18):E702–E707.
4. Kapandji IA. Physiology of the Joints: Volume 3 — The Trunk and the Vertebral Column. Elsevier; 2008.

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If you’re in Wellington and looking for expert chiropractic care, we’re here to help. At Limitless Chiropractic, we focus on helping you move better, feel stronger, and live without limits. Book your appointment today and take the first step toward a healthier, more mobile you!

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