Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a condition that primarily affects the spine. It causes inflammation of the joints in the neck, back, and pelvis, leading to stiffness and pain. Sacroiliac joints, which connect the base of the spine to the pelvis, are often affected in AS. Other joints like hips and shoulders may also be involved.The most common symptoms of this condition include pain and stiffness in the back, buttocks, or neck. These symptoms typically worsen after rest, such as in the early morning, but are relieved through exercise. Additionally, individuals with this condition may experience pain in their tendons, which connect muscles to bones, or ligaments, which connect bones to each other. This pain may be felt in the front of the chest, back of the heel, or underneath the foot.
In addition to the main symptoms, an individual may also experience fatigue, loss of appetite, and inflammation of the eyes. In severe cases, fusion of the spine’s joints can result in loss of flexibility and mobility.
Currently, there is no cure for ankylosing spondylitis (AS). However, treatment has advanced significantly with new medications that are highly effective in managing the condition.
Treatment for AS usually involves:
- Stretching exercises (including hydrotherapy), to keep the spine flexible and improve posture
- medicines, such as:
- analgesics (pain relievers, such as paracetamol)
- non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- corticosteroid medicines or injections
- disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) – biological DMARDs.