If you've had a spinal fusion and are now experiencing new back or neck pain, you may be dealing with Adjacent Segment Disease (ASD): a condition that can develop after spinal fusion surgery. At Atlas Spine Institute, we specialize in diagnosing and treating this complex condition with personalized care plans designed to restore function and relieve pain.

What Is Adjacent Segment Disease?

Adjacent Segment Disease refers to the degeneration of spinal levels next to a previous spinal fusion. When one segment of the spine is fused, the levels above and below take on more stress and motion. Over time, this added pressure can accelerate wear and tear, leading to:

  • Cervical Adjacent Segment Disease (neck)
  • Lumbar Adjacent Segment Disease (lower back)

This condition can affect patients months or even years after their initial spinal fusion.

Common Symptoms of ASD

Patients with adjacent segment disease may experience:

  • Neck pain or back pain that worsens over time
  • Radiculopathy – shooting pain, numbness, or tingling in the arms or legs
  • Spinal stenosis – narrowing of the spinal canal, which can compress nerves
  • Cervical, thoracic, or lumbar nerve compression causing weakness or mobility issues

These symptoms often result from neural canal narrowing at the adjacent levels, which can lead to nerve impingement.

Advanced Surgical Solutions at Atlas Spine Institute

At Atlas Spine Institute, we offer complex spinal reconstruction for patients with adjacent segment disease. Our approach includes:

  • Thorough evaluation using advanced imaging
  • Customized surgical plans based on your anatomy and prior procedures
  • Minimally invasive and motion-preserving techniques when appropriate
  • Reconstruction of spinal alignment and stability

We understand that every spine—and every patient—is unique. That’s why we tailor each treatment plan to your specific needs and goals.

We treat:

  • Adjacent segment disease after spinal fusion
  • Neck pain after cervical fusion
  • Lower back pain after lumbar fusion
  • Spinal stenosis after fusion surgery
  • Revision spine surgery for ASD
  • Complex spine reconstruction
  • Radiculopathy after spinal fusion
  • Cervical and lumbar adjacent segment degeneration