Statement of Disease

Ankylosing spondylitis is a form of chronic inflammation of the spine and the sacroiliac joints. Chronic inflammation in these areas causes pain and stiffness in and around the spine. Over time, chronic spinal inflammation can lead to a complete fusion of the vertebrae, which leads to immobility of spine.

Normal Functions of Major Systems

The function of the spinal column is to protect the soft spinal cord and to support the body and hold the head upright. The spine is composed of various little bones that are separated by small gaps. These little bones are called vertebra, more than one are called vertebrae, and these gaps allow a person to be mobile and bend the spine, however when these gaps are gone due to the vertebrae being fused, the spine becomes erect and mobility is lost.

Symptons and Who it Affects

+The symptoms are:
-inflammation of the spine, joints, and other organs
-pain and stiffness in the low back, upper buttock area, neck, and the remainder of the spine
-The symptoms of pain and stiffness are often worse in the morning or after prolonged periods of inactivity

+It affects:
-approximately 0.1to 0.2 percent of United States
-affects young males at the ages of fifteen through thirty-five

+It is lower in blacks and in some North American Indian tribes.
+The male-to-female ratio is from four to one to ten to one. A

Treatment

Unfortunately, there is no cure yet. The treatment of ankylosing spondylitis involves the use of medications to reduce inflammation and stop the advancement of the disease. Physical therapy and exercise are also two good methods that can help reduce the pain. There is no reason why a person with this disease can not do exercise. Swimming is recommended because it helps the spinal column.

Conclusion

I believe that this disease is a terrible as any other disease because it decreases your mobility by making it almost impossible to move the spine. Since this disease is hereditary, there is not much one could do about it. One should follow the simple rules of posture. Keeping the back straight and not to slouch could be two examples.

References

• (2009) Arthritis and your joints .Rheumatoid Arthritis. Retrieved July 22, 2009, from, http://arthritis.com/rheumatoid_arthritis.asp

• (2009) How the Eye Works. Refractec. MyClearVision. Retrieved July 29, 2009, from, http://www.myclearvision.com/110.asp

• Jiménez-Balderas, F.J. & Mintz, G. (1993). Ankylosing Spondylitis: Clinical course in women and men. Retrieved July 22, 2009, from PubMed database.

• National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Disease (2009). Ankylosing Spondylitis. Retrieved July 22, 2009, from MedlinePlus database.

• Shiel, William C. Ankylosing Spondylitis. (2009). Ankylosing Spodylitis. Retrieved July 22, 2009, from, http://www.medicinenet.com/ankylosing_spondylitis/article.htm

• Wilfred, C.G. (2009). Ankylosing Spondylitis. Retrieved July 22, 2009, from, http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/386639-overview