There are close to 100 rheumatic conditions which impact people. One of these rheumatic diseases is called ankylosing spondylitis. Often referred to as just AS, ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory disease which primarily affects the sacroiliac joints or the joints where the spine meets the pelvis and hip. Literally meaning still inflammation of the spine, the inflammation associated with AS can eventually lead to bony fusion of the joints. In addition, as ankylosing spondylitis progresses, other joints can also develop inflammation of the lining of the joints as well. One of a family of arthritis related diseases, ankylosing spondylitis most often impacts young adult men and has no permanent cure.
The common symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis generally begin with pain in the lower back. Unlike others who suffer from lower back pain, this pain is generally worse not after work but after a period of rest and often improve after exercise. Like other rheumatic conditions, there is no cure and no prevention for ankylosing spondylitis or AS, you can often reduce its progression and help to maintain a regular lifestyle with treatment from a skilled rheumatologist.
If you are coping with ankylosing spondylitis or any other rheumatic conditions, now is the time to get treatment. Most rheumatic conditions can be painful and debilitating and lessen your quality of life however, with early diagnosis and treatment, your quality of life may be increased and preserved for years to come. Don’t wait until it is too late, treat your illness quickly and reduce its impact on your body.
Rheumatologist Highland MI
Recognizing a need for arthritis services in Highland, MI, Dr. Dowd founded the Arthritis Institute of Michigan in 1998. Today, the Arthritis Institute of Michigan is a state of the art facility located in Brighton MI. Roughly 25 miles from Highland, the Institute is currently accepting patients and is dedicated to preserving and enhancing the quality of life of our patients. Find out how we can help you by contacting us online or calling us at 810.225.7553 today.