Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory condition that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints. This progressive condition can fuse the vertebrae, leading to reduced flexibility and a potential stooped posture. Additionally, in severe cases, it may affect the ribs, making deep breathing difficult.

As ankylosing spondylitis advances, the body tries to heal inflammation by forming new bones. Slowly, this new bone connects vertebrae, fusing them. Consequently, it flattens the spine's natural curves, reducing flexibility and causing a hunched posture.

There are two types of axial spondyloarthritis:

1. Ankylosing Spondylitis: When changes are visible on X-rays.
2. Non Radiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis: Diagnosed based on symptoms, blood tests, and other imaging tests when X-rays do not show changes.

Symptoms typically begin in early adulthood. Common early symptoms include:

• Back Pain and Stiffness: Primarily in the lower back and hips, worse in the morning or after inactivity.
• Neck Pain and Fatigue: Persistent discomfort and tiredness.
• Affected Areas:
• Joint between the spine and pelvis.
• Vertebrae in the lower back.
• Areas where ligaments and tendons attach to bones, especially in the spine and back of the heel.
• The cartilage between the breastbone and ribs.
• Hip and shoulder joints.

Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Gradual onset of buttock or lower back pain, worse in the morning or during the night, and improves with exercise but worsens with rest.
• Eye symptoms like painful red eyes, severe light sensitivity, or blurred vision could indicate eye inflammation.

Ankylosing spondylitis typically begins in late adolescence or early adulthood. A crucial risk factor is the presence of the HLA-B27 gene, although not everyone with this gene will develop the disease.

Severe ankylosing spondylitis can lead to:

• Spinal Fusion: Reduced flexibility and a stooped posture.
• Restricted Lung Capacity: Due to a stiffened rib cage.
• Eye Inflammation (Uveitis): Causing rapid-onset pain, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision.
• Compression Fractures: Weakened vertebrae can increase stooped posture and risk spinal cord and nerve damage.
• Heart Problems: Inflammation of the aorta, leading to potential heart issues.

At QI Spine Clinic, we offer advanced ankylosing spondylitis treatment that is non-invasive and aims to reduce symptoms and improve life quality. The key is the Digital Spine Analysis (DSA). This test identifies weak spine areas so that our specialists can focus on strengthening specific muscles. This approach helps prevent stiffness and enhances mobility.

Each patient gets a unique treatment plan. For ankylosing spondylitis, we also include special exercises that can boost chest movement and prevent breathing problems. Also, our clinic uses microcurrent therapy. It eases muscle and nerve pain with no side effects. The more sessions, the more the pain decreases.

QI Spine Clinic tackles the mental and physical sides of ankylosing spondylitis with counseling and special treatments. It is recommended to see a spine specialist early. We can help slow down the disease in your spine joints, reduce pain, and make managing it easier.

Ankylosing spondylitis can lead to back pain and stiffness. There's no cure, but treatments can help. QI Spine Clinic creates unique plans for each patient using fancy tools and the latest treatments. This enables you to feel better, move more efficiently, and enjoy life more.