Ankylosing spondylitis is a form of arthritis that strikes your spine. It is characteristic of a pain and stiffness that runs from the neck to the lower back, sometimes causing the vertebrae to fuse together. If the condition is caught in its early stages, there are measures to be taken that can control the pain and reduce any further damage that may result.
This disease is found in less than one percent of the adult population. The causes are not fully understood, though it seems to be largely based on genetics. It occurs mostly in men in their teens or twenties. Women suffer from it less often, and generally experience milder symptoms. Members of some Native American tribes have a greater occurrence rate.
If you have ankylosing spondylitis, there are exercises that can be done to reduce your pain and minimize damage. Consult our Edmonds chiropractic clinic for further spine-strengthening tips.