Buffalo Hump: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

WRITTEN BY ALICE VINCENT | CONTENT APPROVED FOR MEDICAL ACCURACY BY DR YANNIS | UPDATED 2023-12-18

A relatively common yet rarely discussed condition that many individuals (both men and women) can suffer with. Medically known as Dorsocervical Fat Pads or ‘Buffalo Humps’, it refers to a condition where excess fat collates between the shoulders and behind the neck, creating a hump-like shape.

Causes of a Buffalo Humps

A typical result of another condition called Cushing Syndrome is a disorder of excess cortisol that the body produces. Extremely high cortisol levels increase fat synthesis, creating deposits in the neck (Dorsocervical Fat Pads). Similarly, in the hopes of treating Cushing syndrome with long-term use of glucocorticoid medication (that raises the cortisol levels in the body), it can increase the risk of developing a buffalo hump.

Other ways a buffalo hump can develop is for those treated for HIV or those who suffer from Madelung disease or obesity.

Signs and Symptoms of Buffalo Humps

Physical characteristics include a visible hump between the shoulder blades.

Whilst not always related, there have been links to;
– Weight gain
– Stretch marks
– Excess hair growth
– Acne
– Thinning skin
– Delayed wound healing or flushing skin
– High blood pressure
– Irregular menstrual cycles
– Excessive thirst
– Neurological changes
– Depression
– Decreased Libido

How Is A Buffalo Hump Treated?

While a buffalo hump is mainly dependent on the cause as it can be altered by changing medication, surgical methods can also be recommended. Liposuction is one option that is highly advised as it is able to remove large deposits of fat from the area. Still, we recommend that postural exercises be carried out alongside the procedure to help eliminate the area from developing a hump in the future.