Question
Bone spurs on the forward side of the cervical vertebrae in the neck, from C2, C3,4. There is narrowing,and some calcification in this area. At present there is pain, stiffness, and difficulties in swallowing. In 1999, surgery was done to correct the problem; However the bone spurs are back. Can JOHNS HOPKINS help.
Answer
Forestier’s disease is often called DISH or diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis. It is a variant of degenerative arthritis of the spine in which large bony spurs (osteophytes) form on the vertebrae and in severe cases causing narrowing of the spinal canal with cord compression, difficulty swallowing (pushes on the esophagus) and decreased range of motion. Treatment is surgical if these problems occur. I would make an appointment to see the orthopedic spine service at Johns Hopkins.
