Originally Posted By: LATH
I just don't understand the inflexibility of my neck and upper back...Then when I get up my neck is now stuck straight...I wonder if this is a precursor to fusion.


I don't understand it either, but my neck and shoulders have gotten progressively stiffer as I've gotten older, even though I'm not fusing and even though I'm totally loose after I swim and/or stretch. Then in a couple of hours they're stiff again.

Have you asked your doc about the fusing possibility? The Spondylitis Assn. does say that the AS specific exercises are designed to encourage straight fusing if it's in process... Well, whatever is going on, GOOD JOB doing your upper body stretches along with walking! cheerleader

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ANA+ RF+ Rh- HLAB27+
Dx JRA 1967, GAD 1997, AS 2009, HMs 2010, CPS 2013
pulmonary edema w/ NSAIDS 2009

Movin' it so I don't lose it!