Abstract: A pedicle screw assembly having an axial load element engaging the structure joining the screw and the rod retainer. The axial load element generally holds the rod retainer in place with respect to the screw, while allowing manual movement when desired. In one embodiment, the pedicle screw assembly includes a ball-and-socket joint joining the screw head to the rod retainer. The assembly may include a saddle configured to secure a ball at the head of the screw within a socket in the rod retainer. The saddle may provide resilient compression in the axial direction. For example, the saddle may include a pair of axially-offset slots that extend partially across the saddle from opposite sides to define a bridge section. The resiliency of the saddle may be controlled by varying the characteristics of the slots and consequently the bridge section.