The spine is a miraculous structure of bones, joints, and ligaments that allow for movement and bending of the body. Unfortunately, arthritis can take a toll on the spine, even at an early age. If you are having low back pain, it is important to learn about Ankylosing Spondylitis.
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a type of arthritis that impacts the spine’s ability to function normally. This condition causes inflammation at the joints and ligaments of the spine leading to stiffness and in more severe cases, vertebrae fusion.
While it may seem that this condition is limited to your spine, this is not true. Ankylosing spondylitis can have an effect on other areas of the body causing inflammation and pain. Some areas affected by AS include the shoulders, hips, ribs, heels, eyes, lungs, and even the heart.
Some of the symptoms and indications of ankylosing spondylitis include:
- Recurrent lower back/hip pain
- Back joint dysfunction and stiffness
- Increased pain during periods of inactivity
- Hunched back
When ankylosing spondylitis becomes more severe and impacts other regions of the body, the following symptoms may develop:
- Pain and Inflammation of other joints in the body (ex. shoulders, knees, feet)
- Difficulty breathing
- Blurry vision
- Fatigue
- Abdominal pain and irregular bowels movements
- Loss of appetite
- Sleeping disorder
If these symptoms sound familiar to you, you may be suffering from ankylosing spondylitis. Dr. Moazzaz can help you manage and treat arthritis of the spine.
Dr. Payam Moazzaz is a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon in California specializing in robotic-assisted minimally invasive spine surgery.