What Is Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Ankylosing spondylitis is an inflammatory arthritis that affects the joints and ligaments of the spine. Over time, this condition can cause the vertebrae of the spine to fuse, greatly reducing flexibility and resulting in a hunched posture. If the condition starts to affect the ribcage, it can lead to difficulty breathing deeply. In an attempt to heal, the body produces new bone as AS worsens, and the new bone grows over the gaps of each vertebrae, fusing full sections together.
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What Causes Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Unfortunately, there is no specific cause of ankylosing spondylitis, but it is widely believed that genetic factors play a large role in whether or not someone has a likelihood of developing the condition. Research has found that those with the gene HLA-B27 are at a significantly increased risk of developing the condition, but not everyone with this gene will develop ankylosing spondylitis.
Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis
Early symptoms of AS can include back pain, stiffness in the lower back and hips, neck pain, and fatigue. These symptoms are most common in the morning or may flare up after periods of inactivity. Over time, you may experience irregular intervals of symptoms worsening, improving, or stopping altogether.
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Rudy M.
Totally pain free for the first time in 2 years. From pre-surgery to surgery to HSS stay and now post surgery… feel that I’ve been blessed to have been taken care of by the entire Spinecare team.
Norm Z.
The quality of care I received by Dr. Frank Camissa and his team at Spine Care of NY throughout my laminectomy/spine fusion process was impeccable. My experience and results have confirmed I chose the best of the world’s spine surgeons!
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Where does Ankylosing Spondylitis Occur?
Ankylosing spondylitis most commonly occurs in the following areas of the body:
- The joint between the base of the spine and the pelvis.
- Lower back vertebrae.
- Where tendons and ligaments attach to bones in the spine and sometimes along the back of the heel.
- The cartilage between the breastbone and the ribs.
- The hip and shoulder joints.
How Is Ankylosing Spondylitis Diagnosed?
Ankylosing spondylitis is diagnosed using a combination of laboratory tests, physical exams and imaging tests. A physical exam may include certain stretches or movements to test the range of motion of your spine. Your Provider may also press on certain areas of the pelvis or move your legs into a specific position to replicate instances of pain and locate where they are coming from. Lastly, you may be asked to take deep breaths to see if you have difficulty expanding your ribcage.
Imaging exams can include X-rays to visualize any changes in the bones or joints of the spine. This method is best suited for visualizing more advanced AS called axial spondyloarthritis and cannot always catch the beginning stages of AS. An MRI can be used to provide more detailed images of bones and soft tissues and is much better at viewing early AS.
How to Treat Ankylosing Spondylitis
There are multiple ways to treat AS, and their effectiveness can depend on the severity of each individual’s condition. The main goal of treatment is to minimize pain and stiffness while preventing any further irreversible damage to the joints. The first line of defense may include medications to manage pain and physical therapy to restore and maintain your range of motion. AS is typically managed by a Rheumatologist, however, if symptoms become severe, surgery can be an option. SpineCare of NY prides itself on providing highly skilled and precise spine treatments backed by continuing research to get your treatment right the first time, so there is no need for multiple surgeries.
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SpineCare of NY is affiliated with the Hospital for Special Surgery, the number one ranked orthopedic hospital in the United States. This partnership, combined with our commitment to ongoing research, means that we are able to provide the most up-to-date and minimally invasive solutions to your spine conditions. To learn more about how we can help treat your ankylosing spondylitis, schedule a consultation today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is ankylosing spondylitis diagnosed?
What causes ankylosing spondylitis to flare up?
What areas of the body are affected by ankylosing spondylitis?
Does ankylosing spondylitis get worse over time?
How can ankylosing spondylitis be treated?
Is ankylosing spondylitis curable?
Can ankylosing spondylitis be treated without surgery?
What are the symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis?
What should you avoid doing with ankylosing spondylitis?
How can you tell the difference between ankylosing spondylitis and general back pain?
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