Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing Spondylitis is another condition that causes inflammation in the spinal and hip joints leading to these bones to join together. Eventually this leads to stiffness and loss of mobility in the joints. The disease affects males between ages 20 and 40 more often than females. Ankylosing Spondylitis presents with joint/back pain and stiffness that is worse at night and improves with activity or exercise. Corticosteroids and tumour necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors can improve the symptoms of ankylosing spondulitis. Surgery is only required in the late stages to correct spinal deformities or allow hip movements.