Ankylosing Spondylitis

Back and neck pain are common problems nowadays. Whether it's a result of sitting at a desk all day or lounging on a couch, age-related factors or congenital factors, all are known to affect people of all ages. 
The spine is the central support structure of the body, supporting weight, enabling movement, and maintaining posture. Unlike visible health issues like obesity or skin conditions spinal problems often remain hidden until they become severe and can have long-term consequences.
One severe condition affecting the spine is ankylosing spondylitis. Also known as axial spondyloarthritis, it is an inflammatory disease that causes the vertebrae to fuse and also affects the sacroiliac joints (the joint connecting the spine to the pelvis). Individuals diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis may experience back pain, stiffness in the lower back, hip pain, shortness of breath, and hunched posture. Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis known to be caused by genetic mutations and the HLA-B27 gene (human leukocyte antigen B27). Ankylosing spondylitis is both an inflammatory disease and an auto-immune disease.

  Ankylosing spondylitis is known to affect the spine and sacroiliac joints, but it can also involve other parts of the body. The symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis vary among individuals, though the most common is lower back pain.

Chronic Back Pain

: This is the most common symptom of ankylosing spondylosis. Pain in the lower back and hips may be experienced especially after a period of inactivity.

Stiffness:

Ankylosing spondylitis may cause stiffness in the lower back and hips. The stiffness may worsen with rest and improve with exercise.
Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea): A severe symptom of ankylosing spondylitis is chest pain or difficulty breathing due to inflammation of the joints between the ribs and the spine that can reduce chest expansion causing shortness of breath.
Vision Problems (Uveitis): A progressing condition may cause inflammation of the uvea (the middle layer of the eye) resulting in red and painful eyes, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light.
Postural Changes: In advanced cases ankylosing spondylitis may lead to a forward stooped posture or a hunched back.
Fatigue: Constant fatigue is one of the common symptoms. It frequently occurs as a result of the body's immune response and chronic inflammation.

Other direct or associated symptoms related to ankylosing spondylosis include unexplained weight loss, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, skin rashes, neck pain, etc.

  A spine specialist diagnoses ankylosing spondylitis through physician examination and imaging tests. The specialist may start by discussing the symptoms and asking questions like when was the symptom/pain detected first, and if there is any specific time the symptoms worsened, it helps the specialist identify the exact cause and severity of the condition. Additionally, the specialist may check for the following:

• Inspect for back stiffness
• Check for chest expansion
• Test the spine’s range of motion

After performing a physical examination the specialist might recommend specific imaging tests to ascertain the nature and extent of the problem. These imaging tests can be used to diagnose ankylosing spondylitis.
Blood Test: To check for the mutated HLA-B27 gene (human leukocyte antigen B27).
X-ray: Identify signs of arthritis.
MRI: For detailed images of the soft tissues, spinal joints, etc.

  Treatment options for ankylosing spondylitis focus on symptom management, inflammation reduction, spinal mobility preservation, and preventing complications because the condition is incurable. Furthermore, quality of life can be greatly enhanced by a combination of medications, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and in certain situations surgery.

Medications

Doctor-recommended over-the-counter medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs help control pain and reduce inflammation.

Physical Therapy & Exercises

Exercises and physical therapy are known to effectively reduce stiffness and stop the condition from worsening. A therapist can assist with specific stretches and exercises to help reduce strain, strengthen the back, and prevent stooped posture.

Lifestyle Modifications:

Adopting healthy habits like adding anti-inflammatory foods to the diet (omega-3-rich fish, fruits, vegetables), using supporting chairs & mattresses, and quitting smoking complement medical treatments.

Surgery:

Treatment of ankylosing spondylitis through surgery is rare, though a specialist only suggests if the symptoms are worsening and not getting better with other non-surgical treatment methods. 

Regular Monitoring:

To determine the disease progression and efficacy of treatment regular monitoring is essential.

 

Anyone can develop ankylosing spondylitis, however, certain groups of people are more likely to develop this condition. Although the precise cause of ankylosing spondylitis is unknown a number of risk factors raise the possibility of developing the condition.

Risk Factors	Description
HLA-B27 Gene	Present in more than 90% of AS cases, but not all carriers develop ankylosing spondylitis
Age	Most cases are diagnosed between ages 15 & 35
Gender	Ankylosing spondylitis is more common in men than women
Family History	Family history of Ankylosing spondylitis or related inflammatory conditions increases the risk
Smoking	Worsens symptoms and reduces lung function
Other Autoimmune or Inflammatory Conditions	Linked to psoriasis or inflammatory bowel disease

  Although ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic condition people with it can lead normal productive lives. People with ankylosing spondylitis should however continue to be as active as they can. Managing ankylosing spondylitis also necessitates a comprehensive strategy that includes emotional support, lifestyle modifications, and medical attention. Many people can live happy fulfilling lives if they use the appropriate techniques listed below.

Staying Physically Activity: Engage in low-impact activities, stretching, and strengthening exercises to help improve posture, reduce stiffness, and maintain mobility.

Managing Pain & Fatigue: Use prescribed medications, and apply heat packs to control inflammation and pain.

Adopting a Healthy Diet: Switch to a healthy diet and include omega-3-rich fish, vegetables, fruits, whole grains, etc to maintain bone strength.

Avoiding Triggers: Quit smoking and alcohol consumption as it may exacerbate inflammation and interfere with medication.

Workplace Adaptation: Use supportive chairs and adjustable desks to maintain posture and reduce stiffness.