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What is Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a type of arthritis primarily affecting the spine, causing inflammation, pain, and stiffness. It typically starts in young adulthood and can lead to reduced spinal flexibility over time. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing symptoms.
For more details, check out the Mayo Clinic and Spondylitis Association of America.
Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Quick Guide
Navigate this guide using the quick links below:
What Causes Ankylosing Spondylitis?
The exact cause is unknown, but it's a combination of genetics and environmental factors. Key factors include:
- Genetics: The HLA-B27 gene is linked, but not everyone with it develops AS.
- Immune System: AS is an autoimmune disease where the body attacks healthy tissues.
- Environmental Triggers: Infections or gut bacteria may trigger AS in susceptible individuals.
Further research is ongoing to understand the complex interplay of factors that cause Ankylosing Spondylitis. [Source: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS)]
Ankylosing Spondylitis Symptoms
Symptoms vary and develop gradually. Common signs include:
- Lower Back Pain and Stiffness: Worse in the mornings and after inactivity.
- Hip Pain: Inflammation can affect the hips.
- Pain in Other Joints: Shoulders, ribs, heels, hands, and feet may be affected.
- Fatigue: Persistent tiredness due to chronic inflammation.
- Eye Inflammation (Uveitis/Iritis): Causes eye pain, redness, and blurred vision.
- Reduced Spinal Flexibility: Difficulty bending and twisting over time.
- Difficulty Breathing: If ribs are affected.
Pro Tip: Women with AS may experience less specific symptoms, sometimes with more neck pain and less lower back pain. See a doctor for persistent pain, especially with morning stiffness, fatigue, or eye problems.
Diagnosing Ankylosing Spondylitis
Diagnosing AS involves a combination of physical exams, medical history, imaging, and blood tests. Early diagnosis can be challenging, as symptoms often overlap with other conditions.
- Medical History and Physical Exam: Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, family history, and conduct a physical exam to assess your range of motion, check for tenderness, and look for signs of inflammation.
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Imaging Tests:
- X-rays: X-rays can show changes in the sacroiliac joints and spine, but these changes may not be visible in early AS.
- MRI: MRI is more sensitive than X-rays and can detect inflammation earlier.
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Blood Tests:
- HLA-B27: A blood test checks for the HLA-B27 gene, which is associated with AS, but doesn't confirm the diagnosis.
- Inflammation Markers: Tests like CRP and ESR can indicate inflammation, but are not specific to AS.
Your doctor will consider all of these factors to determine if you have AS or another condition.
Treatment Options for Ankylosing Spondylitis
Managing Ankylosing Spondylitis often involves a combination of approaches. Explore these four key treatment areas:
Physical Therapy & Exercise
Physical therapy and regular exercise are crucial for maintaining flexibility, reducing pain, and improving posture.
- Stretching (spine, hips, chest).
- Core strengthening (planks, bridges).
- Low-impact aerobics (swimming, walking).
- Manual therapy and postural training.
- Consider BraceDirect's hot/cold therapy machines.
Bracing Solutions
Braces provide support, stabilize the spine, improve posture, and reduce pain by limiting movement in inflamed joints. This can be particularly helpful as AS progresses.
The Breg Epic LP TLSO offers firm support and helps to maintain proper spinal alignment.
Medical Management
This category covers medications and, in rare cases, surgical options to manage pain, inflammation, and disease progression.
- NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen).
- DMARDs (sulfasalazine) when needed.
- Biologics (TNF inhibitors, IL-17 inhibitors) for severe cases.
- Corticosteroid injections for flare-ups.
- Surgery (joint replacement, osteotomy, laminectomy) is rare, for severe cases.
Lifestyle Changes
Making positive lifestyle adjustments can significantly impact your AS symptoms:
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Eat a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet.
- Quit smoking.
- Practice good posture.
- Manage stress.
- Get enough sleep.
- Limit screen time that encourages poor posture.
Mid-Level Support for Ankylosing Spondylitis
As AS progresses, you might notice increased stiffness and a tendency to hunch forward. Mid-level support braces can help maintain proper posture and provide additional spinal stability during this stage.
Brace Direct Posture Back Brace TLSO
Ideal for Mid-Level Support and Posture Correction
This brace offers comfortable support, promoting proper spinal alignment and reducing strain on back muscles. Its TLSO design supports the entire back.
SHOP NOWAdvanced Support for Ankylosing Spondylitis
In advanced stages of AS, significant stiffness and spinal curvature (kyphosis) may occur. A more rigid brace can provide the necessary support and help prevent further progression of the curvature.
Cybertech Postural Extension Back Straightener
Maximum Stabilization for Advanced AS
This brace provides rigid support with a posterior frame, promoting spinal extension and counteracting the forward hunch. Adjustable straps allow for a customized fit.
SHOP NOWNeed Help Finding the Right Support?
BraceDirect's expert team can help you find the perfect brace to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. We offer a wide selection of back braces and free video consultations for a perfect fit.
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