Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis

Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) is a bony hardening of ligaments in areas where they attach to your spine. DISH is caused by the buildup of calcium salts in the ligaments and tendons and a hardening and overgrowth of bone. But what causes these to occur is unknown.

Also known as Forestier's disease, this condition might not cause symptoms or require treatment. If it does cause symptoms, the most common are mild to moderate pain and stiffness in your upper back. DISH can also affect your neck and lower back, and some people have DISH in other areas, such as shoulders, elbows, knees and heels. DISH can be progressive. As it worsens, it can cause serious complications.

A thorough, clinical examination of the affected area(s) of the spine that may include imaging which may be important to your recovery. Dr. Tenckhoff uses Cox Technic Flexion Distraction and Decompression to widen the canal space, drop the intradiscal pressure and increase the disc height to relieve pain and encourage as much mobility into the scoliotic spine as possible.

At home you may want to avoid sitting for long periods of time, wear a support brace if recommended, take nutritional supplements that help rebuild disc cartilage, do exercises that strengthen your spine, sleep on a supportive mattress, sit in an ergonomically designed chair, and modify your daily activities as needed.