Final answer:
Kyphotic in relation to the human spine means an excessive posterior curvature of the thoracic region, often leading to a hunchbacked appearance.
Step-by-step explanation:
When talking about the human spine, kyphotic refers to the direction of an excessive posterior curvature of the thoracic region, which is typically associated with the development of a humped or hunchbacked posture. Disorders of the vertebral column such as kyphosis can be due to developmental anomalies, pathological changes, or conditions like osteoporosis, which can weaken and erode the anterior portions of the upper thoracic vertebrae, leading to their gradual collapse. Kyphosis is one of several types of spinal curvature disorders, which also include scoliosis (an abnormal lateral curvature) and lordosis (an excessive anterior curvature of the lumbar region).