What does ankylosing spondylitis mean?
Disease description:
Recently, I have been experiencing severe pain in my joints throughout the body. After visiting the hospital for evaluation, the doctor diagnosed me with ankylosing spondylitis. What exactly is ankylosing spondylitis?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Dai Zhenyu
Ankylosing spondylitis is a rheumatic disease and may also involve the intervertebral disc annulus fibrosus. If ankylosing spondylitis develops, it typically causes low back pain and morning stiffness, and may impair mobility or lead to joint deformities. Under a physician’s guidance, anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications—such as sulfasalazine or methotrexate—may be prescribed. Complementary therapies, including massage and acupuncture, can also be employed. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be considered to improve symptoms.
