Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic, systemic, inflammatory disease of the joints and ligaments of the spine which typically results in pain and stiffness in the spine. The disease may be mild to severe. The bones of the spine may fuse (ankylosis) causing a rigid spine. Early diagnosis and treatment may help control the symptoms and reduce deformity .The severity of ankylosing spondylitis varies greatly from person to person, and not everyone will experience the most serious complications or have spinal fusion. Some will experience only intermittent back pain and discomfort, but others will experience severe pain and stiffness over multiple areas of the body for long periods of time. Ankylosing spondylitis can be very debilitating, and in some cases, lead to disability. Learn more about the condition of ankylosing spondylitis with information on causes, symptoms, history, and treatments.