Ankylosing Spondylitis is a relatively rare form of primary arthritis that results in the long-term inflammation of the joints in the spine. The signs of Ankylosing Spondylitis generally emerge slowly, typically becoming most identifiable during the patient’s 20s and 30s. Symptoms include ongoing dull pain and stiffness of the lower back, especially in the mornings or when at rest, and that tend to be alleviated with movement and exercise. As the condition progresses, there may be an increasing loss of mobility, range of motion, inflammation, and pain. Ankylosing Spondylitis may contribute to the development of other conditions such as fatigue, eye inflammation, and cardiac issues. Symptoms and receptivity to treatment depend on the severity of the condition as well as any comorbid conditions present. It is estimated that between 1 in 1,000 and 1 in 100 individuals may suffer from Ankylosing Spondylitis.
Ankylosing Spondylitis can be diagnosed by a physician through a combination of medical history, physical examination, medical imaging, and blood tests. Presently, there is no medical scientific consensus on the specific causes of the condition, but it is generally believed that both genetic and environmental factors play a role in its development and prognosis. There is currently no cure for Ankylosing Spondylitis, but there are treatment options to reduce associated symptoms and pain, to improve the quality of life of patients with the condition, and to potentially slow the progression of the disease:
If you or a loved one suffers from lower back stiffness and pain, schedule a consultation with one of our specialists at Cayman Neurology and Pain Management. Call (345) 943-6900 or click the link below to request an appointment. The medical specialists at Cayman Neurology and Pain Management use a holistic approach where a variety of modalities are incorporated into a treatment plan throughout a patient’s life. Any changes to patients’ symptoms will be addressed on an ongoing basis. Integrating lifestyle changes with a range of treatment options allows the patient to minimize degeneration and lay the ground for improvement.
It’s estimated that between 1 in 1,000 and 1 in 100 people may have ankylosing spondylitis.
A physician diagnoses it through a combination of medical history, physical exam, medical imaging, and blood tests.
It may. Back pain and stiffness from ankylosing spondylitis tend to ease with movement and exercise, and exercise routines are part of many treatment plans.
No. There’s currently no cure, but treatments may reduce symptoms, improve quality of life, and potentially slow the disease’s progression.