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What is Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Ankylosing Spondylitis is a serious rheumatoid disease
affecting mainly the cartilage and synovial joints of the spine.
Inflammation occurs when the ligaments of the spine join onto the
bone, causing the spine to stiffen. This condition, which mainly
affects the spine, can also affect other joints, usually the hips
and knees. Iritis (inflammation of the front of the eye) can also
occur. Ankylosing Spondylitis affects more men than women and commonly
develops between 18 and 30 years.
What Causes Ankylosing Spondylitis?
The cause is not yet known. 95% of all people with Ankylosing Spondylitis
having a particular blood antigen called HLA-B27. A family history
increases the risk substantially.
What are the Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Chronic low back (buttock) pain and stiffness
Early morning spinal stiffness, wearing off during the day or with
exercise
Improvement with exercise, worse after rest
Slow, gradual onset over weeks or months
Loss of mobility in the lower back
Other problem Areas
The Iritis that occurs in some people with Ankylosing Spondylitis,
is sometimes called red eye, and should be treated urgently. It
is important for all people diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis
to have their eyes checked regularly by an Opthalmologist (eye specialist)
to obtain correct diagnosis and treatment.
Ankylosing Spondylitis may occur on its own or may be associated
with other disorders which include psoriasis, some inflammatory
bowel conditions and reactive arthritis, which can occur following
bowel or genital infection.
How is Ankylosing Spondylitis Diagnosed
This condition needs to be properly diagnosed and managed by a doctor
or Rheumatologist (a specialist in musculo-skeletal diseases).
How is Ankylosing Spondylitis Managed?
There is no cure for Ankylosing Spondylitis. Ankylosing Spondylitis
ranges from mild to severe and predicting an outcome is difficult.
The course of the disease is variable. There are times when it is
well controlled and causes few problems and at other times the symptoms
can "flare".
Diet
There is no special diet or specific foods which cause or improve
Ankylosing Spondylitis, but research is continuing. However, a nourishing
and well-balanced diet is important for the maintenance of healthy
tissues. The Omega 3 oils, which include Canola, Olive and Fish
oils, may be beneficial.
Exercise
Exercise is extremely important in the management of Ankylosing
Spondylitis and an exercise plan is important for fitness and flexibility.
If you have Ankylosing Spondylitis it is important that you consult
a physiotherapist for a specific exercise program.
Hydrotherapy (warm water exercises)
This can help reduce the pain and stiffness whilst allowing the
spine and joints to move more easily.
When Ankylosing Spondylitis is inactive, many activities can be
carried out, including regular brisk walking, racquet sports and
cycling. Exercises to be avoided are those that place excessive
stress on the spine, such as football, water skiing and high impact
aerobics.
Spinal Posture and Deep Breathing
Correct spinal posture is important when carrying out daily activities.
Deep breathing exercises will help to maintain chest expansion.
Shoe inserts and good footwear can help painful feet. Occupational
Therapists can offer advice on joint protection and energy preservation.
The provision of correct chairs and work stations are essential
for workplace comfort.
Medications
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are often prescribed
to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Disease modifying drugs may be prescribed to control the
disease. These drugs work slowly and may need to be taken for a
long time.
• Corticosteroid drugs are sometimes prescribed to control
inflammation.
• Multiple medications or a combination of medications may
be prescribed.
The drugs used are complex and need to be monitored frequently.
It is important that you understand your medications. Please discuss
them with your doctor.
This information is part of the information sheet prepared by Arthritis
WA, May 2000
The information presented is not intended to replace the medical
advice of your doctor or health care provider. Arthritis SA recommends
that you consult your doctor about specific medical conditions.
Other information and resources available
from Arthritis SA
Ankylosing Spondylitis Fact Sheet
Email advisors@arthritissa.org.au
(please include your postal address in email)
Bending for Bowlers
Email advisors@arthritissa.org.au
(please include your postal address in email)
Telephone Advisory Service
9.30am - 3.30pm, Mon - Fri
8379 5711 or country free call on 1800 011 041
Library
Straight Talk on Ankylosing Spondylitis
Borrowing privileges extend to members only
Book Sales
The Back Pain Helpbook by James Moore, Kate Lorig, Michael
Von Korff, Virginia Gonzalez and Diana Laurent, 1999
For price and order details please contact Arthritis SA
• 8379 5711 or country free call on 1800 011 041
• Email info@arthritissa.org.au
(please include your name and business hours phone number in email)
Video & DVD Sales
Tai Chi for Arthritis 2, by Dr Paul Lam, 2001
For prices and order details please contact Arthritis SA
• 8379 5711 or country free call on 1800 011 041
• Email info@arthritissa.org.au
• (please include your name and business hours phone number
in email)
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