Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the spine, causing pain and stiffness in the lower back and hips. It can also affect other joints and organs, such as the eyes, heart, and lungs. Over the time, AS can lead to the fusion of the vertebrae in the spine, causing a loss of mobility.
- Pain and stiffness in the lower back and hips, which may be worse in the morning or after prolonged periods of inactivity
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Joint pain and stiffness in other areas, such as the knees and shoulders
- Inflammation and pain in the eyes, called uveitis
- Difficulty expanding the chest due to stiffness in the rib cage, leading to breathing difficulties
- Exact cause is unknown, but genetic factors are thought to play a role
- More common in men than women
- Typically begins in early adulthood
- Physical exam and medical history
- Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans
- Blood tests to look for markers of inflammation and genetic testing to check for HLA-B27 gene
- Pulsed Signal Repair Therapy helps to improve cellular function and promote healing in the body. It stimulates cellular metabolism and increases circulation, which can help to reduce pain and inflammation, improve tissue repair, and promote overall healing.
- Physical therapy and exercise to improve mobility and flexibility
- A proper diet routine along with a nutrition program will help manage the condition better.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve pain and inflammation
- Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) to slow disease progression
- Biologic medications, which target specific proteins involved in inflammation