How Ankylosing Spondylitis

Affects Your Body

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a type of inflammatory arthritis that affects the spine and can also cause inflammation in other parts of the body. The inflammation caused by AS can lead to pain, stiffness, and swelling in the affected joints. In some cases, AS can also cause damage to the bones and organs of the body.

Spine

The spine is the most commonly affected part of the body in AS. Inflammation of the spine can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the back. In some cases, AS can also lead to the formation of new bone (ankylosis) between the vertebrae, which can cause the spine to become stiff and inflexible.

Sacroiliac joints

The sacroiliac joints are located at the base of the spine and connect the pelvis to the spine. Inflammation of the sacroiliac joints can cause pain and stiffness in the lower back and buttocks.

Hips

Inflammation of the hip joints can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the hips. In some cases, AS can also lead to damage to the cartilage and bone of the hip joints, which can cause arthritis.

Shoulders

Inflammation of the shoulder joints can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the shoulders. In some cases, AS can also lead to damage to the cartilage and bone of the shoulder joints, which can cause arthritis.

Knees

Inflammation of the knee joints can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the knees. In some cases, AS can also lead to damage to the cartilage and bone of the knee joints, which can cause arthritis.

Other parts of the body

In some cases, AS can also cause inflammation in other parts of the body, such as the eyes, the heart, and the lungs.