Christopher I. Shaffrey, MD's portrait
Christopher I. Shaffrey, MD
Professor, Department of Neurological Surgery
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, VA
Dr. Shaffrey is a member of the SpineUniverse Editorial Board.

SpineUniverse Articles from Christopher I. Shaffrey, MD

Non-surgical Treatments for Ankylosing Spondylitis

To deal with the symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis, you have several non-surgical options. Exercise can bring pain relief and keep your spinal joints mobile. Your doctor may prescribe medications for inflammation. Other options are explained, too.

Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis

The first symptom of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is usually pain in the sacroiliac joints (located at the back of the pelvis). From there, AS can spread up the spine, causing bones to fuse, also known as ossification. Spinal stiffness is another symptom of ankylosing spondylitis.

Exams and Tests for Ankylosing Spondylitis

Your doctor may run several exams and tests while trying to diagnose ankylosing spondylitis. Most likely, you'll have physical and neurological exams. You may need to have blood work done, and the doctor will probably order an x-ray.

Surgery for Ankylosing Spondylitis

Here's some good news: most patients with ankylosing spondylitis won't need surgery. Read about the situations where surgery may be recommended and what procedures surgeons use for AS. Also includes tips for an easy recovery from spine surgery.

Childhood Scoliosis: Diagnostic Steps

A small percent of children will be found to have scoliosis; an abnormal spinal curve. Learn how this condition is properly diagnosed.

Kyphosis: Treatment and Recovery

Early treatment of kyphosis is especially important to the adolescent patient. Left untreated, the curve progression can lead to significant problems later during adulthood.

Childhood Scoliosis: Treatment and Recovery

A treatment plan is determined by the child's age, remaining growth potential, curve pattern and magnitude, anticipated rate of progression, and appearance.

Scoliosis in Children: A Complex Disorder

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is more common among girls, but it does affect boys, too. Fortunately, severe cases aren?t as prevalent as smaller, more manageable curves. Read how abnormal curves in the spine are diagnosed and treated.

Kyphosis: Description and Diagnosis

Kyphosis is a progressive disorder that can affect children or adults in the thoracic or cervical spine. This disorder may cause a deformity described as humpback or hunchback. Read about possible causes and tests doctors use to diagnosis kyphosis.

Artificial Discs and Degenerative Disc Disease

Artificial Discs and Degenerative Disc Disease, an interview with Kevin Foley, M.D.
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