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Hello everyone,
I was diagnosed with AS 2 years ago. Long story short, my biggest concern is with regards to my neck. Specifically, I have constant stiffness and have lost a great deal of range of motion. Has anyone had surgery for this? If so, what kind of surgery? What was the exact name and nature of your neck condition to warrant the surgery?
Thank you
@A MySpondylitisTeam Member. I list the "exact nature of my neck condition" on my wall under the updates tab about this time last year, maybe a little later after an updated MRI 6 month post stem cell treatments for it. I was told 10 years ago that i would likely be seeking surgical "relief" within a year based on my condition in comparison to others the Neuro surgeon i asked had already worked on. I've had 4 surgeons tell me that i "need fusion" from C2-T2. I cant wrap my brain around zero movability for the rest of my life, let alone months of wearing a cage or heavy neck brace even while sleeping. No thanks. I began a daily physical therapy routine that involves micro stretching movements. It took about 3 or 4 years to regain almost full normal range of motion. Now i hold onto that ability with commitment to staying out of the OR. When it comes to fusions, the non fused vertebrae above and below the fusion take on the extra flexion load. This makes those ones deteriorate faster with the likelihood that they will need it too and sooner rather than later. Furthermore, if you have Autoimmune disease, it is likely to be significantly exacerbated from the trauma of surgery. Before opting for surgery, consider trying to get two more opinions and how they would do it. You might find a less invasive treatment. Have a Neuro rather than ortho surgeon do it. They have more training time on the nerves in and out of your spine. Consider trying a stem cell transplant first if it's authorized in Canada. The US recently approved BMAC (Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate) procedures for spinal arthritis. Committed physical therapy can work if you have the patience for it. It took months before i began to feel improvement. Its amazing what the human body can adapt to. My cervical spine curves in reverse with 6 herniated\bulging discs, 3 discs full of osteophytes. Osteophytes on all the foraminal joints, 9 nerves in stenosis. A real mess that i have full range of motion with despite it all. Yours in better health P 😌🙏
Most people with AS don't require surgery, as it's typically considered a last resort when other treatments haven't provided relief. However, surgery may be recommended in cases of severe symptoms, particularly when there's significant loss of movement and persistent pain.
For neck-related AS symptoms, there are several Show Full Answer
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