Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a type of disease characterized by inflammation, stiffness and pain in the facet joints of the spine. The inflammation may result in joints and vertebrae fusing together, making the spine more rigid and less flexible. Male patients between the ages of 15 and 30 are most likely to become affected, although, it can affect anyone.
The bone growth and fusion occurs as a result of the inflammation of ligaments. The inflammation eats away at the bone, and when the inflammation subsidies, the bone regrows in its new form. The result is a less flexible and stiff spine.
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