Dr. M.J. Bazos, MD
Patient Handout
ANKYLOSING
SPONDYLITIS
About Your
Diagnosis
Ankylosing spondylitis is a form of arthritis
that primarily affects the entire spine, although it may involve the hips and
shoulders. It usually affects young men, and there seems to be a genetic link.
Back pain is the most common symptom, and it may be quite difficult to make the
correct diagnosis in the early stages of the condition. Most of the usual blood
tests for arthritis are normal. In the later stages of the condition,
radiographic (x-ray) findings can be quite dramatic, showing complete fusion of
the spine. This may cause the patient to walk in a stooped posture. Ankylosing
spondylitis can have features such as eye irritation, heart problems, and spinal
cord compression. A decreased ability to expand the chest can be another early
finding.
Living With Your
Diagnosis
Ankylosing spondylitis is a gradually
progressive disease, and it can result in serious impairments. Precautions
include sleeping without pillows to prevent the neck from fusing in an
abnormally flexed position. If this happens, it becomes difficult to see
straight ahead when walking or driving. Physical therapy, including water
therapy, is combined with use of medications such as aspirin and
anti-inflammatory drugs to minimize deformity and
pain.
Treatment
Nonsurgical
treatment is geared toward preventing fusion in undesirable positions. Physical
therapy is important but possibly not cost effective. Analgesics and
anti-inflammatory drugs can be effective in managing the pain. Surgical
treatment involves cutting the bones in the spine to realign the body into a
functional position. This is a complex surgical procedure with considerable
risk, and patient and surgeon should choose this option with care. Hips may be
involved, and replacement arthroplasty may be
needed.
The
DOs
• Maintain as much
motion as possible to prevent
fusion.
• Perform regular
non-weight-bearing
exercise.
The
DON’Ts
• Do not
spend long periods in a poor posture, particularly with the head hanging
forward.
When To Call Your
Doctor
• If you fall and
notice a sudden change in the alignment of your neck or back, whether or not you
are feeling
pain.
Websites:
http://www.spondylitis.org/symptoms.htm
http://www.medmedia.com/oa4/46.htm