Upper Back Pain May Be Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis that affects the spine.

Ankylosing spondylitis symptoms include pain and stiffness from the neck down to the lower back. The spine’s bones (vertebrae) may grow or fuse together, resulting in a rigid spine. These changes may be mild or severe, and may lead to a stooped-over posture. Early diagnosis and treatment helps control pain and stiffness and may reduce or prevent significant deformity.
 

What Causes Ankylosing Spondylitis?

Although the cause of ankylosing spondylitis is unknown, there is a strong genetic or family link. Most, but not all, people with spondylitis carry a gene called HLA-B27. Although people carrying this gene are more likely to develop spondylitis, it is also found in up to 10% of people who have no signs of the condition.

If you have any of these symptoms and would like to discuss treatment, contact me by phone at 352-464-1645 or online here.

To read the rest of this article on WebMD click here: Ankylosing Spondylitis