Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a form of chronic arthritis characterized by inflammation in the radial spine and large joints. It results in stiffness and pain in the affected areas. The hipbone-spine junction may become damaged as a result of this condition. The disease might also lead to the formation of bony bridges in the spine that fuse the vertebrae. Chest bones could merge. This condition usually occurs during a person’s late teens or early 20s.

Symptoms
Discomfort and stiffness in the lower back and hips, particularly in the morning and after periods of inactivity, are possible early signs and symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis. Fatigue and neck aches are also frequent. Symptoms may improve, worsen, or stop entirely at sporadic intervals over time. The body produces more calcium around the spine bones due to inflammation. This causes the back and neck to become stiff. Rarely, the excess calcium may cause some of the spine bones to fuse. This results in the spine bending forward in extreme situations.

Causes
Although the causes of ankylosing spondylitis are unknown, it is likely to have a connection with a gene variant called HLA-B27. Even if one has this gene mutation, they might not have AS. The prevalence of the HLA-B27 gene mutation in the general population is thought to be 8 per 100; however, the majority do not have AS.
It is believed that possessing this gene variant may increase their risk of developing AS. Although the exact nature of the environmental triggers is unknown, the condition may be brought on by one or more of them.

Treatment

A variety of ankylosing spondylitis remedies can help slow it down as well as cure pain and stiffness. However, exercise and paying close attention to one’s posture are crucial for keeping the spine mobile.

• Pain relief and anti-inflammatory substances: Ankylosing spondylitis is typically managed with pain relief treatment methods and anti-inflammatory formulations.
• Injections: Certain injections have a strong anti-inflammatory impact and can be given to those with AS. It can be administered directly to a painful joint. After the injection, one must rest the joint for up to 48 hours.
• Surgery: The majority of people with AS will not require surgery. However, if the concerned joint has been significantly injured, joint replacement surgery may be advised to relieve pain and restore movement. For example, a hip replacement may be performed if the hip joints are affected. Corrective surgery may be required in rare circumstances if the spine gets severely bowed.
• Physical therapy: Physiotherapy is a critical component of ankylosing spondylitis treatment. A physiotherapist will design an exercise program to help develop muscle strength and maintain mobility in the spine and other joints. Exercise the back and neck to keep them from hardening into a bent position.
• Nutrition and meal plans: While food alone cannot cure or manage ankylosing spondylitis, avoiding foods that cause inflammation, such as processed foods and saturated fat, and eating foods that reduce inflammation may help manage symptoms such as joint pain and stiffness. A meal plan high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acid-rich foods like fatty fish are some foods to help with ankylosing spondylitis, as they may aid in reducing inflammation.