I also have spinal stenosis in my neck. This past January, I had an a appointment with the chairman of the local college Orthopedic Dept. I was warned of the possibilities, but went ahead. My biggest problem now is, I lost 40% of the movement of my neck along with pain in my both shoulders. It was my decision, just think twice. Best wishes!!

Yes it is, I had Spinal Stenosis surgery a 1 1/2 ago. I`ve had AS since the mid 70`s, but after 3 lower back operations they finally diagnosed AS in 2010. I`ve had both hips replaced and both shoulders operated on. They told me I would loose 40% of the movement of neck. Big mistake on my part. Please be careful!!

Okay, I’m an old veteran of cervical fusion (x2), entire cervical spine is fused. I’ve had 5 surgeries from T-1 to S-1. This started in 2005 when I got tired of taking pain meds. I was referred to a neurologist, he did X-rays and wanted to throw more meds at the horrible migraine headaches. I wanted to know what caused them! 1st MRI told him to send me to a neurosurgeon immediately for an “emergency” surgery. Now I’m a retired cop and emergency has a different meaning for me. Same week I see the neurosurgeon, he concurs with original MRI but does regular work up, the he sends me to get another emergency MRI the next day! Got a call late the same day, we have you scheduled for an emergency lumbar fusion in 2 days! Typical L-4 & L-5. Then lower cervical spine then more lumbar and and back to cervical. Last fusion all the fusions were connected. Genetic issues, bones not staying where God put them!
Now saying that, I was ready to leave the hospital the same day of the surgery! I was pain free after each surgery, just sore from the incision and bone work! Arthritis still giving me fits but, that’s normal for an old man!
NOW, I cannot stress this as much as I can! DON’T use an orthopedist on your spine for anything!! Not knocking them, they’re great for bones anywhere else, but a neurosurgeon knows the spine and nerves!!! And just because he’s a neurosurgeon doesn’t mean he/she does surgery right away. Use a neurosurgeon! My range of motion in my neck is limited but that’s to be expected, they tell you that. I did my PT and my exercises and I have acclimated really well. Be smart, find a neurosurgeon with great reviews, get your GP to help! Don’t fear this!

AS is the disease of the joints.

I would like to answer your question but what does it refer to?