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Doctor evaluating patient symptoms for Adjacent Segment Disease diagnosis at Mountain Spine & Orthopedics
Condition/Condition Details

Adjacent Segment Disease

Diagnosis and treatment for accelerated degeneration at the spinal levels above or below a previous fusion, a common cause of returning pain after surgery.

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Understanding Adjacent Segment Disease (ASD)

Adjacent Segment Disease (ASD) refers to the accelerated degeneration of spinal segments directly above or below a previous surgical fusion. The fusion alters spinal biomechanics, placing additional stress on these neighboring levels.

ASD can cause new pain and stiffness near the original surgery site. At Mountain Spine & Orthopedics, we provide thorough evaluations, including complimentary MRI reviews, to deliver precise diagnoses and create effective, individualized care plans for patients experiencing post-surgical symptoms.

Symptoms to Watch For of Adjacent Segment Disease

If you have had a previous spinal fusion, be aware of these new symptoms:

  • New or returning neck or back pain
  • Stiffness near the original surgical site
  • Reduced range of motion
  • Radiating numbness, tingling, or weakness in the limbs
  • Increased pain when standing or walking
Medical illustration of adjacent segment disease following spinal fusion

Common Causes and Risk Factors of Adjacent Segment Disease

Key risk factors for developing ASD include pre-existing degenerative changes, multi-level fusions, obesity, and poor posture. The increased mechanical load on adjacent segments accelerates the wear and tear process.

Non-Surgical Management for Adjacent Segment Disease

We explore all conservative avenues before considering further surgery.
  • Rehabilitation for spinal stabilization
  • Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
  • Targeted spinal injections
  • Lifestyle and activity modifications
  • Core strengthening exercises

Revision Spinal Surgery for Adjacent Segment Disease

If conservative measures fail, advanced treatments including minimally invasive revision surgery may be recommended to restore spinal function.
Learn More About Revision Spinal Surgery

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Related Treatments & Conditions

View all spine conditions and treatmentsSpinal FusionBack Pain ReliefComplimentary MRI ReviewExpert Second OpinionNeck Pain After FusionRevision Spinal SurgeryMultilevel Degenerative Disc Disease SurgeryAnterior Lumbar Corpectomy and FusionAnterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF)

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Locations Offering Evaluation

Our board-certified specialists offer adjacent segment disease evaluation and treatment at locations across Florida, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Georgia. Schedule a consultation at a clinic near you.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Adjacent Segment Disease (ASD)?

Adjacent Segment Disease is a condition where spinal levels immediately above or below a previous fusion degenerate due to increased mechanical stress. It is a potential long-term complication of spinal fusion surgery.

How do you prevent Adjacent Segment Disease?

The best prevention is maintaining a healthy weight and strong core muscles to support the spine. Additionally, opting for motion-preservation surgeries like Artificial Disc Replacement instead of fusion can significantly reduce the risk.

Does adjacent segment disease always require surgery?

No. Treatment begins with conservative measures like targeted exercises, bracing, and injections. Surgery is only recommended if these fail and nerve compression causes significant pain or weakness.

What are the symptoms of adjacent segment disease?

Symptoms mimic the original spinal problem, including returning back pain or radiating leg pain (sciatica) years after a successful fusion surgery, indicating new degeneration at a neighboring level.

How is adjacent segment disease treated surgically?

Surgical treatment typically involves extending the fusion to include the affected level. In some cases, a decompression or disc replacement can be performed to address the new issue without further fusing the spine.