Spondoylitis

Spondylitis refers to inflammation of the vertebrae, typically affecting the spine. The most common type is ankylosing spondylitis, a type of inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine and can lead to fusion of the vertebrae over time. Here are some key points:

Key Features

• Symptoms: Chronic pain and stiffness in the lower back and hips, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity. Symptoms may improve with exercise and worsen with rest.
• Causes: The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but genetics (particularly the presence of the HLA-B27 gene) and environmental factors may play a role.
• Diagnosis: Typically involves a physical exam, medical history, imaging tests (like X-rays or MRIs), and blood tests for inflammatory markers.
• Treatment: While there’s no cure, treatment options focus on managing symptoms and may include medications (like NSAIDs), physical therapy, and lifestyle changes. In some cases, biologic drugs may be prescribed.