🦴 Spinal Rigidity

Spinal rigidity refers to a loss of normal flexibility and mobility in the spine, resulting in a stiff, inflexible spinal column that may impair movement and posture.

🧠 In Clinical and Surgical Contexts: Spinal rigidity is often the unintended consequence of repeated spinal surgeries, multilevel vertebral cement augmentation (e.g., multiple kyphoplasties), spinal fusion, or advanced degenerative changes.

🔍 Causes may include: Multilevel vertebral augmentation (e.g., extensive use of bone cement)

Spinal fusion surgeries

Ankylosing spondylitis or diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH)

Severe osteophyte formation or degeneration

Post-traumatic or post-infectious ankylosis

⚠️ Clinical Implications: Increased risk of adjacent segment fractures

Reduced ability to absorb mechanical stress

Impaired balance and gait

Possible contribution to chronic pain