Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) is a condition that results in the calcification of body ligaments and tendons around the spine. This disorder is a type of arthritis that is also known as Forestier’s disease.
These calcified regions can also develop bone spurs, which are abnormal new bone growths that can cause pain, stiffness, and restrict mobility. This typically happens where the tissue and bone are connected.
The thoracic and cervical spine, which make up the upper section of the back and neck, are frequently affected by DISH. DISH can occur anywhere on the body such as hands, knees, hips, heels, and/or ankles.
The management of DISH can involve a range of approaches such as physical therapy, medication, surgery, and the use of heat therapy.
Some DISH patients have no symptoms. X-rays obtained for a different purpose are examined by doctors who find the condition. When DISH symptoms do manifest, they include:
Symptoms typically appear when the spine’s surrounding nerves start to be compressed by bone spurs.
DISH is brought on by abnormal bone growth and calcification. An accumulation of calcium salts causes calcification, which results in the hardening of ligaments and tendons. What triggers these conditions is unknown to healthcare providers.
There are some risk factors that are believed to increase the likelihood for DISH even though the cause is unknown. They consist of: