Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing Spondylitis is an inflammatory disease that, over time, can cause some of the bones in the spine (vertebrae) to fuse. This fusing makes the spine less flexible and can result in a hunched posture. If ribs are affected, it can be difficult to breathe deeply.

Ankylosing Spondylitis affects men more often than women. Signs and symptoms typically begin in early adulthood. Inflammation can also occur in other parts of the body most commonly, the eyes.

There is no cure for Ankylosing Spondylitis, but treatments can lessen symptoms and possibly slow progression of the disease.

Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis

Early signs and symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis might include pain and stiffness in the lower back and hips, especially in the morning and after periods of inactivity. Neck pain and fatigue also are common. Over time, symptoms might worsen, improve or stop at irregular intervals.

The area’s most commonly affected are:

1. The joint between the base of the spine and the pelvis
2. The vertebrae in the lower back
3. The places where tendons and ligaments attach to bones, mainly in the spine, but sometimes along the back of the heel
4. The cartilage between the breastbone and the ribs
5. The hip and shoulder joints

Causes of Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing Spondylitis has no known specific cause, though genetic factors seem to be involved. In particular, people who have a gene called hla-b27 are at a greatly increased risk of developing Ankylosing Spondylitis. However, only some people with the gene develop the condition.

Complications of Ankylosing Spondylitis

In severe Ankylosing Spondylitis, new bone forms as part of the body’s attempt to heal. This new bone gradually bridges the gap between vertebrae and eventually fuses sections of vertebrae. Those parts of the spine become stiff and inflexible. Fusion can also stiffen the rib cage, restricting lung capacity and function.

Other complications might include:

1. Eye inflammation (uveitis). One of the most common complications of Ankylosing Spondylitis, uveitis can cause rapid-onset eye pain, sensitivity to light and blurred vision. See your doctor right away if you develop these symptoms

2. Compression fractures. Some people’s bones weaken during the early stages of Ankylosing Spondylitis. Weakened vertebrae can crumple, increasing the severity of a stooped posture. Vertebral fractures can put pressure on and possibly injure the spinal cord and the nerves that pass through the spine

3. Heart problems. Ankylosing Spondylitis can cause problems with the aorta, the largest artery in the body. The inflamed aorta can enlarge to the point that it distorts the shape of the aortic valve in the heart, which impairs its function. The inflammation associated with Ankylosing Spondylitis increases the risk of heart disease in general.

Treatment for Ankylosing Spondylitis 

Comprehensive treatment for Ankylosing Spondylitis by Dr. Ravi Shinde, Chiropractor at clinics Mumbai / Thane / Pune