Ankylosing spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis is a form of inflammatory arthritis (rheumatoid arthritis is another form) that affects the joints of the lower back. ‘Ankylosing’ means stiffening and ‘spondylitis’ means inflammation of the spine.

There is no cure for ankylosing spondylitis, but, like most forms of inflammatory arthritis, it can go into remission – often when people reach their fifties.

What happens?

What causes ankylosing spondylitis is not clear, but it is more common among men than women. It is also more frequently seen in younger people.

In ankylosing spondylitis, the sacroiliac joints (which join the base of the spine to the pelvis) become inflamed. This is why your lower back may feel sore first thing in the morning. The list below tells you what happens.

1. Inflammation occurs
   
2. Scar tissue forms in the spaces between vertebrae (the chain of bones that make up the spine)
3. Scar tissue may turn into boneand fill the space between the vertebrae
4. The joint is effectively fused and movement of the spine is limited

How will it affect me?

The initial symptoms are pain, aching and stiffness in the lower back. You may also feel pain further up the back and restricted movement of the chest.

Some people will experience pain and discomfort on and off for a number of years until the inflammation ceases, but most will be able to lead a full and active life. In others movement of the spine may be severely limited.

On some days you may feel overwhelming tired. Another symptom is inflammation of the eyes (called iritis) which needs immediate treatment to prevent further damage.

How is it treated?

It is very important that you get diagnosed early to minimise the damage to your joints. There are a number of things you can do to manage your condition:

• exercise to maintain mobility, prevent the joints from being fused into a bad position and to help relieve pain.
• your doctor can prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce pain and stiffness.

The hip joints are also sometimes affected and may need replacing.

For more information contact the National Ankylosing Spondylitis Society

The Arthritis Care Helpline is available to answer any specific questions you may have on all aspects of arthritis.