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Spondylitis - Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

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Spondylitis

Spondylitis is an umbrella term for a group of chronic inflammatory diseases that mainly affects the spine. It causes persistent pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. In advanced cases, the inflammation can cause the fusion of vertebrae, which reduces spinal flexibility and causes a hunched posture. Although spondylitis is a form of arthritis that mainly affects the spine, it can also affect other joints, tendons, ligaments, and even organs like the eyes or lungs over time. If left untreated, it can significantly impact quality of life and overall well-being.

Early diagnosis and comprehensive medical care are important in managing symptoms, slowing disease progression, and improving the quality of life for those living with spondylitis.

At Felix Hospital, we provide world-class spondylitis treatment combining cutting-edge technology with personalized care. Our multidisciplinary team provides holistic solutions tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Spondylitis has several subtypes, each presenting unique challenges and symptoms. Understanding the type of spondylitis is the first step towards effective treatment. The most common types include:

  • Ankylosing Spondylitis: This is the most common type of spondylitis that commences with long-term pain and stiffness in the lower back. It may cause the vertebrae to eventually fuse together.
  • Psoriatic Spondylitis: It is a complex condition, often seen in individuals suffering from psoriasis. This type goes beyond the spine to include peripheral joints.
  • Reactive Arthritis: It is caused and triggered by infections in other parts of the body and thus brings about unexpected joint and spine inflammation following food poisoning or a urinary tract infection.
  • Juvenile Spondyloarthritis: The condition refers to stiffness or pain in the spine and joints among children or adolescents.
  • Axial Spondyloarthritis: This encompasses the subtypes of conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis and non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis, both characterized by inflammation in the axial skeleton, leading to chronic discomfort and stiffness.

Spondylitis generally presents a variety of symptoms, varying in severity and progression depending on the subtype. Some of the common symptoms include:

  • Lower back pain, often persistent and radiating
  • Stiffness in back
  • Pain and swelling in the joints
  • Fatigue
  • Changes in posture
  • Pain in other areas like hips, chest, painful breathing, etc.
  • Mild eye inflammation
  • Pain starts spreading to other joints

The cause of spondylitis is still unknown, though a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors contribute to its development. Also, the cause depends on the type of spondylitis, for instance, Psoriatic Arthritis is caused either due to an injury or it may have a genetic link.

You should see a doctor if your lower back pain is increasing gradually. Spondylitis-induced back pain generally wakes you up at night or is the worst in the morning, right after you wake up.

  • Genetics and Family History: A family history of spondylitis may increase the risk.
  • Gender: Men tend to be affected two to three times more than women.
  • Immune System Disorder: Certain autoimmune conditions may contribute to spondylitis.
  • Infections: Certain bacterial infections, particularly in the gastrointestinal or urinary tracts, may trigger the condition.
  • Age Factor: Spondylitis usually starts between 20 and 40 years.
  • Lifestyle Factors: Smoking and a sedentary lifestyle may exacerbate symptoms and progress the disease more rapidly.

Depending on its type, spondylitis can cause complications in your day-to-day life and lead to additional health conditions. Spondylitis is a complex condition, without treatment it can affect many parts of your body. It can cause long-term damage to the bones and joints in the spine, neck, and pelvis. It may also cause complications such as reduced flexibility, joint damage, osteoporosis, spinal fractures, and heart disease, etc.

During the physical exam, your orthopedist will test and evaluate the range of motion in your spine. You may also be asked to take a deep breath to check for difficulty in expanding your chest.

If your doctor suspects spondylitis, based on its type, you may be asked to undergo one of the following tests:

Imaging Tests

  • X-rays: Helps doctors check for changes in joints and bones, especially in cases of ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic spondylitis.
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Uses radio waves and a strong magnetic field to provide more detailed images of bones and soft tissues.

Lab Tests

  • There are no specific lab tests to diagnose spondylitis. However, certain blood tests can check for markers of inflammation.
  • Blood tests can also check for the HLA-B27 gene. However, many people with this gene do not have ankylosing spondylitis, and some people with the disease do not have the gene.

Treatment for spondylitis focuses on reducing pain and stiffness while preventing deformities. Treatments may include:

Medical Management

Medications play a crucial role in controlling inflammation, pain, and disease progression. Depending on the severity and symptoms, a combination of different drug therapies may be used, including:

  • Anti-inflammatory drugs
  • Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs)
  • Short-term use of corticosteroids

These medications help target inflammation and prevent further joint damage.

Physical Therapy & Exercise

Physical therapy and exercise contribute significantly to spondylitis treatment. They help improve flexibility, reduce stiffness, and strengthen back muscles.

Posture Training

Posture training is vital, as poor posture can worsen spinal damage.

Hydrotherapy

Water-based exercises or swimming can be highly beneficial for patients experiencing significant pain or joint stiffness.

Lifestyle Changes

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help manage symptoms and prevent disease progression. Key lifestyle changes include:

  • Eating a healthy diet
  • Quitting smoking
  • Exercising regularly

Surgical Management

Surgery is an option for patients with severe disease or those who do not respond to conventional treatment. Additionally, advanced treatments, such as alternative pain management modalities, may be utilized to enhance quality of life.

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Why Choose Felix Hospital for Spondylitis Treatment?

At Felix Hospital, we provide comprehensive diagnosis, world class spondylitis treatment and patient-centric care to all our patients. Our team of experienced orthopedists, rheumatologists, physical therapists and other specialists use cutting- edge technology under one roof, thus ensuring quality treatment to patients.

Here’s what makes us the best choice:

FAQs

After a detailed medical history and thorough physical examination by our specialist, the patient may have to undergo one or more of the following diagnostic tests: X-ray to rule out bone-related disorders along the spine. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) examines the blood to diagnose inflammation.
Yes, the disease is quite progressive, and the rate of progression is slowed by continued treatment, such as medication, physical therapy, and exercise. Early diagnosis and timely treatment ensure proper management of the disease.
Yes, at Felix Hospital, we provide a range of support services, including mental health support to our patients. Ankylosing spondylitis has been found to raise the risk of depression because its symptoms can impact quality of life.
Preparation involves discussing all medications with the doctor, your surgery goals, attending physical therapy to strengthen muscles, and arranging for post-surgery support at home.