Ankylosing Spondilitis (AS) tends to occur in you adults, and usually effects men more severely than women. A form of spinal arthritis, it leads to inflammation and a classification, or hardening, of the ligaments in the sacroiliac joints and in the intervertebral joints that link the vertebrate together. It is also known as Marie-Strumpell or Bechterev’s disease.

CAUSES

Generally, sufferers of Ankylosing Spondilitis are genetically predisposed toward the disease. Little is known about what causes it, although it is known to be an autoimmune disease, which means that the body’s immune system not only fights invading infections but also attracts the body’s own cells. It is thought that AS may start when an immune response to bacteria or a virus continues once the infection has gone.

SYMPTOMS AND DIAGNOSIS

The onset of the disease usually occurs between and mid-teens and the mid-30s. It affects the sacroiliac joint first, and will cause pain and stiffness in your lower back and buttocks that is worse on waking. You may find it difficult to bend forward and your hips joints will be stiff. It advances gradually over several years into the thoracic and cervical spine, causing pain and the stiffness in the rest of your back and neck. Extreme stiffness can result in you hunching forward, flattening your chest and curving your spine. In some people, the inflammation and calcification may eventually affect the joints between the ribs and the mid-spine so that movement of the rib cage is limited, impairing breathing. Your doctor will make a diagnosis by considering your symptoms and performing tests, including blood tests, X-rays and MRI scan, and ultrasound.

RISK

It is important to identify and treat the condition as early as possible to prevent irreversible deterioration in posture and mobility. People with Ankylosing Spondilitis have an increased risk of osteoporosis in the spine and of heart and circulatory problems, such as stroke.

TREATMENT:

Treatment includes physical therapy, exercise, and medication. Physical therapy shown to be of great benefit to AS patients.  Swimming is also one of the preferred exercises since it involves all muscles and joints in a low-impact. Yoga and Jogging are available to reduce symptoms and pain of Ankylosing Spondilitis.