Ankylosing Spondylitis: Symptoms, causes, and treatment 

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) refers to a chronic inflammatory condition that primarily affects sacroiliac joints and the spine, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. However, in most cases, it affects the spine. Below, the best orthopedic surgeon in Mukundapur has discussed the symptoms, causes, and treatments.

The condition starts with mild stiffness and pain in the lower back and hips. Over time, the symptoms might worsen, affecting the entire spine. Common signs of Ankylosing Spondylitis are as follows.

Pain and Stiffness: Persistent stiffness and pain in the lower back, buttocks, and hips that typically worsens in the mornings or after a few hours of inactivity.

Limited Mobility: Reduced range of motion in the spine, causing difficulties in bending or twisting.

Fatigue: Chronic inflammation can trigger fatigue and a feeling of sickness. 

Joint Involvement: Besides the spine, other joints like the shoulders, knees, and ankles might also be affected.

Eye Problems: Inflammation in the eyes is a complication of this condition, causing redness, pain, and blurred vision.

The particular cause of Ankylosing Spondylitis is not clear, but a combination of environmental and genetic factors is considered to play a significant role. The HLA-B27 gene is strongly associated with AS, although not everyone with this gene develops the condition. Environmental triggers, such as infections, may activate an immune response, contributing to chronic inflammation and related symptoms.

Ankylosing Spondylitis is not a curable condition. However, various treatment approaches aim to manage symptoms, improve quality of life, and slow down the advancement of the disease. Below, the top orthopedic doctors in Mukundapur have listed some of them.

Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are often the first in line of treatment, providing pain relief and reducing inflammation. In more severe cases, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or biologics might be prescribed to regulate the immune response.

Physical Therapy: Certain exercises can help maintain flexibility, improve posture, and reduce pain.

Lifestyle Modifications: Maintaining a healthy weight, practicing good posture, and avoiding smoking can help manage the condition.

Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying cold or heat to affected areas can provide temporary relief from pain and stiffness.

Surgery: In rare cases where AS leads to severe joint damage and disability, surgical interventions like joint replacement might be considered.

Early treatment is important for managing Ankylosing Spondylitis. If left untreated, it can lead to fusion of the spine, causing permanent loss of mobility. Hence, consult with the best orthopedic surgeon in Mukundapur for seeking early treatment for your condition.