Ankylosing Spondylitis is a form of arthritis which affects the spine. It is characterized by inflammation of the spinal joints. This condition affects the sacroiliac joints which lie between the sacrum and pelvis.

Other joints are also affected. As a matter of fact, Ankylosing Spondylitis can cause stiffness and pain in the shoulder, ribs, heels, small joints of the hand and feet etc. Sometimes, the inflammation of the spine can cause new bone outgrowths which fuse together and renders the spine immobile. This can cause pain and stiffness. Genetic factors seem to play a role in the development of Ankylosing Spondylitis. It is seen more frequently in men than in women. Most people with this condition show the presence of a gene marker called HLA-B27.

Although this gene by itself is not responsible for Ankylosing Spondylitis, its presence can make a person more susceptible to the condition. In some people, Ankylosing Spondylitis causes some discomfort and back pain and then the symptoms die down by themselves. In some others, the disease can cause extreme back pain, stiffness and discomfort which interferers with their normal lifestyle and even their jobs. Medication, exercises, physiotherapy and good posture can help manage this condition to a great extent.