The term ‘spondylitis’ describes a collection of inflammatory diseases that mostly affect a person’s spine. It involves swelling in the vertebrae and can lead to stiffness, chronic pain, and reduced mobility. As the problem worsens, the vertebrae may eventually fuse together, reducing the spine’s flexibility.
Types of Spondylitis
Based on the area of the body it affects, spondylitis can be classified into the following main types.
- Ankylosing Spondylitis:
A common form of spondylitis, ankylosing spondylitis primarily affects the sacroiliac joints (where the spine meets the pelvis). It may eventually cause the spine to fuse and become rigid. - Cervical Spondylitis:
This type impacts the neck region, causing stiffness, pain, and sometimes nerve compression that leads to headaches or arm weakness. - Lumbar Spondylitis:
Focused on the lower back, lumbar spondylitis may cause discomfort, limited mobility, or radiating pain in the legs. - Other Forms:
Based on the underlying autoimmune disorder, there are other forms of spondylitis:
– Enteropathic Spondylitis: Linked to inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis, it causes spinal inflammation and back pain.
– Psoriatic Spondylitis: Associated with psoriasis, this type often affects the spine and sacroiliac joints, causing stiffness and discomfort.
– Reactive Spondylitis: Triggered by a type of inflammatory arthritis, it involves joint pain and inflammation, especially in the lower back.
Symptoms of Spondylitis
A patient may have any of the following symptoms, depending on how severe their illnesses are.
- Chronic pain and stiffness, especially in the back and neck
- Fatigue due to inflammation
- Difficulty with movement or bending
- Swelling in other joints, such as hips or shoulders
- In severe cases, fusion of vertebrae
Risk Factors
Several factors can contribute to the occurrence of spondylitis such as:
- Genetics: Family history increases risk, particularly with the HLA-B27 gene.
- Age and Gender: Spondylitis often affects younger adults, and men are more prone to ankylosing spondylitis.
- Autoimmune Conditions: Many forms of spondylitis are linked to autoimmune disorders.
Importance of Early Diagnosis
Early diagnosis is essential to manage symptoms and prevent long-term complications like spinal fusion or disability. Imaging tests (like X-rays or MRIs) and blood analysis can help confirm the diagnosis and assess the inflammation levels.
Managing Spondylitis with Spinal Decompression
Non-surgical spinal decompression treatment is a modern, effective way to alleviate symptoms of spondylitis. At ANSSI Wellness, this treatment is designed to reduce pressure on the spine, relieve nerve compression, and restore mobility.
Unlike invasive procedures, spinal decompression is gentle and targets the root cause of pain, offering long-lasting relief. For those struggling with spondylitis, this treatment can be life-changing.
Visit ANSSI Wellness to learn how spinal decompression can help you manage spondylitis and reclaim your mobility. Schedule a consultation now!
About ANSSI:
ANSSI Wellness focuses on improving the quality of life for patients suffering from spinal issues, aiming to provide relief where other conventional treatments have failed. Through advanced non-surgical spinal decompression treatment, ANSSI is committed to helping patients avoid surgery and recover in a safe, effective, and compassionate environment.
