Ankylosing spondylitis

Before knowing about the subject topic “ankylosing spondylitis” let us know what is spondylitis

Spondylitis is a condition that involves inflammation of the spine.

Spondylitis is an umbrella term for a group of chronic arthritis-type diseases affecting the joints of the spine and sacroiliac region. The sacroiliac region includes the pelvis and lower spine.

All types of spondylitis involve inflammation of the joints, tendons, and ligaments. Tendons are connective tissues that attach muscle to bone, while ligaments are connective tissues that attach bones to other bones.

Now let us know the difference between Spondylitis and spondylosis:

Spondylitis and spondylosis are similar conditions that can both cause hip and back pain. However, the two conditions have different characteristics and causes.

Spondylitis
Spondylitis is a condition in which the immune system attacks the joints, causing inflammation, bone fusion, and excess bone formation.

Spondylosis
Spondylosis is a type of arthritis related to aging and general wear and tear of the spine. It occurs when the joints and discs of the spine degenerate. Osteophytes, which are bone spurs that grow on the individual backbones or vertebrae, may also cause it.

The traditional spondylitis classification system categorizes spondylitis into six types and one of the type is:-

Ankylosing spondylitis

Overview
Ankylosing spondylitis, also known as axial spondyloarthritis, is an inflammatory disease that, over time, can cause some of the bones in the spine, called vertebrae, to fuse. This fusing makes the spine less flexible and can result in a hunched posture. If ribs are affected, it can be difficult to breathe deeply.

Symptoms
Typically begin in early adulthood. The areas most commonly affected are:

• The joint between the base of the spine and the pelvis.
• The vertebrae in the lower back.
• The places where tendons and ligaments attach to bones, mainly in the spine, but sometimes along the back of the heel.
• The cartilage between the breastbone and the ribs.
• The hip and shoulder joints.

Causes
Ankylosing spondylitis has no known specific cause, though genetic factors seem to be involved.

Complications
In severe ankylosing spondylitis, new bone forms as part of the body’s attempt to heal. This new bone gradually bridges the gap between vertebrae and eventually fuses sections of vertebrae. Those parts of the spine become stiff and inflexible. Fusion also can stiffen the rib cage, restricting lung capacity and function.

There is no cure for ankylosing spondylitis, but treatments like “YOGA” can lessen the symptoms and possibly slow progression of the disease.

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