Ruth B If a person is extremely kyphotic then the roll backs on this particular barrel may be too intense. If you put a baby arc on top of the spine corrector it will make the curvature a little less intense which can be helpful. Alternately, you could turn the person around and approach it from the other side supported by a blanket or pillows...anything really to make the curve comfortable for the person. Hope that helps. Please let me know if you have any questions.