SUFFERING FROM CHRONIC BACK PAIN GET CHECKED FOR ANKYLOSING SPONDYLITIS

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a form of arthritis that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints(lower back) characterised by pain and stiffness(predominantly in themorning or after periods of inactivity) around the spine, from neck down to the lower back and buttocks.In advanced cases this inflammation can lead to fusion of the spine bones (ankyloses), resulting in immobile spine.

Apart from spine, it also causespain, stiffness, swelling, warmth in shoulders, hips, heels, ribs and small joints of the hands and feet. Sometimes the eyes may be involved (iritis or uveitis), and rarely the lungs and heart can alsobe affected.Disease course is variable among different patients

.Ankylosing Spondylitis generally affects young males (20-40years age).The tendency to develop Ankylosing Spondylitis is genetically inherited.The HLA-B27 gene can be detected in the blood of most (90%) patients with AS.Clues to the diagnosis is suggested by X-ray/MRI abnormalities of the spine, ESR, CRP, HLA-B27"said Dr. Sravan Kumar Appani, MD (NIMS) DM (NIMS), Consultant Rheumatologist at STAR Hospitals.

Rheumatologists are thesuper-specialists whodeals with diagnosis and treatment ofthepatients with Ankylosing Spondylitis.The optimal treatment of Ankylosing Spondylitis involves medications that reduce inflammation or suppress immunity. Physical therapy and exercise canhelp improve posture&spine mobility.

Book Appointment: Dr. Sravan Kumar Appani, MD (NIMS) DM (NIMS), Consultant Rheumatologist at STAR Hospitals.