Ankylosing spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis is a form of arthritis that mainly affects the spine. It is also known as rheumatoid ankylosis and is a chronic condition. There are chances that other joints of the body may also get affected. The inflammation of the spinal joints can cause severe pain and discomfort. In a few acute cases this inflammation can lead to the formation of a new bone on the spine. This condition will fuse the spine in a fixed position thus making it immobile and stooping it forward. Ankylosing spondylitis can also cause inflammation, pain and/or stiffness in the small joints of the hands and feet, shoulders, hips, ribs and heels. This disease affects men more than it affects women.

Ankylosing spondylitis symptoms

Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic form of arthritis. The main symptoms include:

• Back pain
  
• Stiffness of the back
  
• Limited flexibility
  
• Tenderness of the bones
  
  

Pain caused due to this condition may develop gradually over months and increase with heavy activity. It is likely to aggravate in the mornings.

Physical therapy for Ankylosing spondylitis

• Pain-relief methods
  
• How to protect joints
  
• How to conserve energy
  
• Proper body mechanics