Ankylosing Spondylitis

Overview

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory arthritis of the spinal joints, typically affecting the joint connecting the spine to the pelvis and sometimes other joints such as the shoulders or hips, with possible eye and bowel involvement. Back pain is characteristic and often comes and goes, while joint stiffness usually worsens over time. Its cause is unclear but is thought to involve genetic and environmental factors, with over 90% of patients carrying the HLA-B27 antigen.

Symptoms

• Low back pain
• Morning stiffness
• Restricted movement
• Kyphosis
• Fatigue

Treatment

Management centers on sustained functional exercise and good posture combined with anti-inflammatory medication, requiring long-term standardized care in rheumatology.

Dietary advice

Eat a balanced diet with adequate calcium and vitamin D, quit smoking, and maintain moderate exercise.