Dr. Chen Ying-ho of Tzu Chi Hospital in Hualien, Taiwan, has helped 33 people who suffered from ankylosing spondylitis over the past five years, perfecting a previously dangerous surgical technique.

One day, while getting out of bed, 20-year-old Chien Yin-chun noticed a mild ache in his lower back. As months progressed, the ache gradually became a persistent, painful stiffness. The joints in his arms, shoulders, knees and feet acquired a painful arthritic condition. Functioning at work became a daily challenge to overcome.

Chien was 39 when he finally met Dr. Chen Ying-ho, director of the orthopedics department at Tzu Chi Hospital in Hualien, Taiwan. At that time, Chien's spine was curved and bent forward a full 160 degrees. His chin almost touched his knees. His internal organs, being squeezed and compressed, could not function properly. To balance his body, he was forced to walk on his toes and could not look forward. Dr. Chen saw right away that the pain of social isolation brought on by Chien's condition was as difficult to live with as his physical pain.

After being admitted to Tzu Chi hospital, Chien was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis, a crippling bone disorder that affects millions worldwide, including about 20,000 in Taiwan alone. The disease usually strikes males in their early twenties with symptoms similar to Chien's. In short, patients suffer from a very painful osteoarthritis that attacks every joint in the body and every segment of the spine. The spine is especially susceptible and usually becomes deformed.

The corrective surgery required is known as "one-level osteotomy" or "transpedicular osteotomy." It is particularly delicate, as the surgeon must directly alter the bones of the spinal column. A supportive device firmly holds the spinal column still while the surgeon precisely carves pieces off of each spinal segment to realign the patient's back correctly.

Chien needed three operations because of the severity of his condition. However, most patients are able to get out of bed five days after the operation with the assistance of a special brace and walker. Two weeks after surgery, patients are able to check out from the hospital. After three months, they are able to begin working and living normal lives.