04/06/2026
✅ ANKYLOSING SPONDYLITIS: A CHRONIC INFLAMMATORY DISEASE OF THE SPINE
▪️What Is Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS)?
Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory condition that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints.
▪️Over time, inflammation can lead to stiffness, reduced flexibility, and in severe cases, fusion of spinal bones.
🔵 Common Signs & Symptoms
• Lower Back Pain
➜ Usually begins gradually in the lower back or buttock region.
• Morning Stiffness
➜ Often worse after waking up and improves throughout the day.
• Pain Improves With Movement
➜ Unlike mechanical back pain, symptoms often improve with exercise and activity.
• Pain Worsens With Rest
➜ Sitting or lying down for long periods may increase stiffness and discomfort.
• Buttock or Hip Pain
➜ Caused by inflammation of the sacroiliac joints.
• Reduced Spinal Flexibility
➜ Difficulty bending, twisting, or maintaining normal posture.
• Fatigue
➜ Ongoing inflammation can cause persistent tiredness and low energy.
• Red Painful Eye (Uveitis)
➜ Eye redness, pain, blurred vision, or light sensitivity may occur and requires urgent medical attention.
🔵 Possible Complications
• Progressive spinal stiffness.
• Stooped posture.
• Reduced chest expansion.
• Eye inflammation (uveitis).
• Increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
• Reduced quality of life if untreated.
🔵 Risk Factors
• Family history of ankylosing spondylitis.
• Presence of the HLA-B27 gene.
• Symptoms often begin in early adulthood.
• More common in males, but females can also be affected.
🔵 Management Strategies
• Regular Exercise
➜ Helps maintain flexibility, posture, and mobility.
• Physiotherapy
➜ Improves spinal movement and muscle strength.
•Massage Therapy
• Anti-Inflammatory Medications (NSAIDs)
➜ Often used to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Biologic Therapies
➜ May be prescribed when symptoms remain active despite standard treatment.
• Smoking Cessation
➜ Smoking can worsen disease progression and lung function.
• Regular Rheumatology Follow-Up
🔵 When to Seek Medical Attention
• Persistent back pain lasting more than 3 months.
