Pectus Carinatum

‘Pigeon Chest’ affects 1 in 400 people

4 out of 5 are adolescent males


Pectus carinatum is often described as ‘pigeon chest’, and usually occurs around the age of 11 years. It is a chest wall deformity caused by overgrowth of the cartilage either side of the sternum, causing the wall of the chest to protrude or stick out. This can be present from birth but usually develops during the rapid growth of adolescence.

Pectus carinatum has a prevalence of 0.6%, and research suggests it affects males more often than females. It becomes radically more noticeable during puberty, the severity of which usually worsening during growth spurts in late childhood/adolescence.

The condition can vary, presenting itself as flexible or stiff, symmetrical or asymmetrical. Every patient is different, as some cases are easier to correct than others. It has traditionally been treated by surgery; however this leaves a scar on the chest and can cause weakness to the chest wall.

As an alternative, orthotic treatment has been used globally for around a decade, and has been shown to be a less invasive technique to effectively return the shape of the chest to a normal appearance. Our specialist orthotists at Steeper Clinic are able to offer treatment through the use of a chest compressor brace.

 

Chest Compressor Brace Treatment

Gemma's Pectus Carinatum Story

"I am very happy that with Kate at Steeper Clinic's help, my treatment is complete and I am more confident in my own body than I have ever been"
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