Ankylosing Spondylosis

At the Bonati Institute, we see many cases of ankylosing spondylosis, a chronic, degenerative disease where the joints of the spine grow inflamed. It is a form of arthritis also known as degenerative disk disease. With time, the body's immune system causes bones to grow between the vertebra. It causes stiffness and reduced motion as well as pain. Ankylosing spondylosis affects vertebra, discs, and the interior spinal cord.

Ankylosing spondylosis can also affect other parts of the body, including the knees, shoulders, hips, heels, and jaw. In some people, it causes swelling of the iris, light sensitivity, and eye pain. Most people notice ankylosing spondylosis when they wake up feeling stiff in the morning and have back pain, muscle weakness, or tingling in the limbs. It is a relatively common disorder that affects men more than women.

Suspecting Ankylosing Spondylosis

If you have been having back or neck pain and stiffness, a visit to your doctor is in order. He or she will probably take x-rays or an MRI or CT scan. If ankylosing spondylosis is likely, he or she will probably do some genetic testing. Medication and physical therapy are possible treatments, but if they fail, you might need surgery.

The Bonati Institute pioneered the field of arthroscopic back surgery. This procedure causes much less pain and bleeding than traditional "open" back surgery, and recovery time is much quicker. It is usually far less expensive than traditional surgery and is done under a local anesthetic. If you are interested in learning more about our services, please contact us today.