Ankylosing spondylitis is a form of arthritis affecting spine where the vertebrae fuse together resulting in rigid spine or bamboo spine. It is manifested as pain and stiffness to such an extent that the person attains a stooped posture. The severity may vary from person to person and if persistent for a prolonged duration may result in significant deformity. In ankylosing spondylitis fusion of bones is a prominent feature which hampers the daily activities of the person as the range of mobility and flexibility gets reduced. The area commonly involved include low back, sacroiliac joint, buttocks, hips, ribs, breast bone, tendons, ligaments around the joint, heel, ankle. Along with pain and stiffness other prominent features are fever, tiredness, redness, dryness of eyes, pain in chest on inspiration etc

Homeopathic treatment is recommended as it helps in reducing the discomfort, pain, stiffness, maintains the mobility, flexibility of joints and prevents joint deformities. Early intervention can minimize the disease progress and within short duration complete cure can be established.

What is Ankylosing Spondylitis?

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a type of chronic inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine. It is characterized by inflammation of the joints between the vertebrae, leading to chronic pain, stiffness, and eventually, fusion of the spinal bones. However, AS can also affect other parts of the body, such as the hips, shoulders, knees, and feet.

The most common symptom of ankylosing spondylitis is lower back pain and stiffness that is typically worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity. The pain and stiffness may gradually improve with movement and exercise. Over time, the inflammation can lead to the fusion of the vertebrae, causing a loss of flexibility and a forward stooped posture.

Causes of Ankylosing Spondylitis

Immune system dysfunction: Ankylosing spondylitis is considered an autoimmune disorder, which means that the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues. The exact triggers for this immune system dysfunction are not fully understood, but it is thought to involve a combination of genetic susceptibility and environmental triggers.

Environmental factors: Certain environmental factors may trigger the development of ankylosing spondylitis in individuals who are genetically predisposed. These factors could include bacterial or viral infections that activate the immune system, as well as other environmental triggers that are still being investigated.

Family history: Having a family history of ankylosing spondylitis increases the risk of developing the condition. If a close family member, such as a parent or sibling, has AS, the chances of developing the condition are higher.

Gender and age: AS is more common in men than in women. The onset of symptoms typically occurs in late adolescence or early adulthood, although it can occur at any age.

Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis

• Persistent lower back pain
• Stiffness and reduced mobility
• Pain and inflammation in other joints
• Fatigue
• Reduced chest expansion
• Eye inflammation