Ankylosing Spondylitis: Understanding This Chronic Inflammatory Spine Condition

November 11, 2025

Ankylosing Spondylitis: Understanding This Chronic Inflammatory Spine Condition

Verified By
KIMS-SUNSHINE
Specialist,
11 November, 2025

There are over hundreds of different types of arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis is one such condition that is chronic and affects the spinal cord. It tends to affect the sacroiliac joints the most – which is the spot where the spine merges at the pelvis. This joint is one of the most important joints in the body- as it helps you move, turn or shift your hips throughout. But, ankylosing spondylitis can also occur in other joints – like the shoulder, knee or hips respectively. Since it is a type of arthritis, it can cause symptoms like pain, inflammation and stiffness. Though incidence is pretty low in the subcontinent, it is worth learning more about this condition. More men suffer from this condition, when compared to women, though the exact reason is not known. It has been hypothesized that it may be due to greater presence of the HLA-B27 gene in the male population and subtle differences in immune system function between the sexes.

Symptoms Of Ankylosing Spondylitis

Some of the most commonly felt symptoms include the following

Pain in your hip and butt
Having neck pain or even abdominal pain in some cases.
Some people may notice pronounced stiffness in the hip or lower back in the morning or after a long period of inactivity.
Some people may have nausea, vomiting or may lose weight too.
Very rare cases present with vision changes.

Causes And Risk Factors (HLA-B27 Gene)

Though there are many mutations that can lead to AS, the HLA-B27 gene mutation has been very well studied and it is present more in males than in females. This is also why more males present with inflammatory disorders when compared to women. AS in general is an autoimmune condition, like rheumatoid arthritis, colitis etc. and you may develop other immune related conditions too.

Risk factors include being male, having a close relative with the condition or if you already suffer from an autoimmune disorder.

Diagnosis Of Ankylosing Spondylitis (X-Ray, MRI)

Since there is a genetic component to this condition, some doctors may recommend blood tests to check for the presence of the HLA-B27 antigen. But a positive test does not always mean that you will suffer from ankylosing spondylitis for sure. A physical exam is done by a rheumatologist (a doctor who specialises in treating autoimmune conditions like these). Detailed imaging can be done too, to ascertain the extent of damage- which can be in the form of fused vertebrae, spiral fractures of the spine, kyphosis, osteoporosis, nerve damage etc.

Treatment for Ankylosing Spondylitis

Medications will be prescribed to help you with the pain and inflammation. But, many of them cannot be taken for a long time. Biologics can help stop the progress of the disease, at times. Corticosteroids will be given if there is too much pain. Cortisone can be injected into the affected joint, to help provide relief. Surgery is not recommended, unless fusion of the vertebrae is very severe and you have other problems that affect the quality of your daily life.

Conclusion

Living with ankylosing spondylitis is totally possible, if you learn how to understand the severity of your symptoms and understand how to manage them, in the long term. Since it is an autoimmune condition, you may have periods of time where symptoms are bad (a flare up) or you may feel normal at other times (in remission). Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic condition that may or may not affect you often, but talk to an experienced rheumatologist for more insight into this condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ankylosing spondylitis?

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the spine and sacroiliac joints. It causes pain, stiffness, and reduced flexibility, which can lead to fusion of the vertebrae over time. The condition may also affect other joints and organs such as the eyes. Early diagnosis and treatment help manage symptoms and prevent permanent spinal damage.

What causes this chronic spine inflammation?

The exact cause of ankylosing spondylitis is not fully understood, but genetic factors play a major role. The HLA-B27 gene is strongly linked to the condition. The immune system mistakenly triggers inflammation in the spine and joints, leading to pain and stiffness. Environmental factors and infections may also contribute to disease onset in genetically predisposed individuals.

How is ankylosing spondylitis diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves a detailed medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans to detect inflammation and changes in the spine or sacroiliac joints. Blood tests may identify the HLA-B27 gene and markers of inflammation. Early and accurate diagnosis allows timely treatment to control pain and preserve mobility.

What treatments are available for AS?

Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and maintaining posture and flexibility. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), biologic agents, and physiotherapy are common approaches. Regular exercise and postural training form a crucial part of long-term management. In severe cases, surgery may be required to correct spinal deformity or joint damage.

What complications can arise if AS is untreated?

Untreated ankylosing spondylitis can cause permanent spinal stiffness, reduced mobility, and fusion of vertebrae. Chronic inflammation may affect the hips, shoulders, and eyes, leading to uveitis or vision problems. Some individuals may also develop heart or lung complications. Timely treatment helps prevent these outcomes and improves long-term quality of life.