What causes a hump on the back of the neck, also known as Buffalo Hump?

A hump behind the shoulder, also called a buffalo hump, can develop when fat gathers together behind your neck.

This condition is not necessarily serious. Tumors, cysts, and other abnormal growths can also form on your shoulders, creating a hump. Other times a hump can be the result of a curvature in the spine (which is medically called kyphosis) that results from a chronic, forward-leaning posture that’s too common in our world of computer screens and other devices.

Over time, a habit of poor posture can cause you to develop an abnormal curve of your upper vertebrae.

“Bad posture is the most common cause of a buffalo hump,” says our experienced pain specialist team at Zanskar. Weak muscles of the upper back and neck, as well as tight muscles in the neck and chest are often the cause for this forward-leaning humped posture - often known as tech-neck.

Other possible causes include:

1. Kyphosis

Considered a spinal condition, kyphosis is when your spine curves excessively forward. Your spine has natural curves to it, which helps you stand straight and supports your posture, but kyphosis can affect your posture and make standing a challenge.

In addition to having a hump in your upper back, you may also experience:

• Rounded shoulders.
• Tight hamstrings.
• Pain or stiffness in your back and shoulder blades.
• Extreme fatigue.
• Headaches or migraines

2. Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition that results in the loss of bone, an increased risk of fracture, and a very rounded upper back. The upper back rounds when the weakened vertebrae at the top of the spine collapse. 

• Muscle knot: Overuse, poor posture, and lack of muscle release can lead to the formation of tight, painful clusters of agitated muscles that feel like a hump on the back of the neck
• Boils / Cysts: Keratin material fills these lumps, which may take years to develop.

The outcome for a person with a hump on the back of the neck relates closely to what causes it.

If a person is proactive, they can slow the progress of osteoporosis-related bone loss and reduce the risk of broken bones. Steps that they can take include eating a healthful diet and exercising.

Symptoms of kyphosis can appear in childhood, and early diagnosis and treatment can help correct the curve in the spine before the person reaches adulthood.

People with bumps on the back of the neck due to skin issues, such as boils, carbuncles, moles, and cysts, generally have a good outlook. 

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Medical Review: This article is written by Dr Nishtha Mittal (Senior Health Content Editor at Zanskar Health) and has been medically reviewed by the medical team at Zanskar Health. This article and its contents are provided for educational and informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice or professional services specific to you or your medical condition.