Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory arthritis that affects the spine and other joints, and is a type of Spondyloarthritis. AS is characterized by pain and stiffness in the spine and can lead to fusion or "ankylosis" of the spine. It commonly affects young adults and men more than women. Treatment includes physical therapy, medications, and lifestyle modifications; in some cases, surgery may be needed. AS is an increasingly recognized problem and its early recognition and prompt management can improve long-term outcomes.