Ankylosing Spondylitis

Living with ongoing back pain and stiffness can be frustrating, especially when it doesn’t seem to go away with rest. If you suffer from these symptoms every day, you might be diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis — a chronic condition that affects the spine and joints. At Bioinfusion Center in Farmington Hills, Michigan, Cindy Crosby, MSN, FNP, CCRN, CRNI, and the team can provide the right diagnosis and the highest standard of care to help you manage your discomfort and maintain a good quality of life. Don’t wait to book an appointment. Call today or use the online scheduler now.

What is ankylosing spondylitis?

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a type of chronic inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints — the joints connecting your lower spine to your pelvis. Over time, AS can cause sections of your spine to fuse, leading to reduced flexibility and a hunched-forward posture. 

It’s considered an autoimmune condition, meaning the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, triggering persistent inflammation. The condition typically begins in early adulthood and is more common in men than women.

What are the symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis?

The most common early symptom of AS is persistent lower back pain and stiffness, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity. These symptoms may improve with movement or exercise, but not with rest. 

As the condition progresses, pain and stiffness can spread to your neck, hips, shoulders, and other joints. Additional symptoms may include fatigue, reduced range of motion, pain in your heels or soles, and, in some cases, inflammation in your eyes, which can cause redness, pain, and blurred vision.

What causes ankylosing spondylitis?

While the exact cause of AS isn’t fully understood, genetic factors play a significant role. Most people with AS carry a gene called HLA-B27, although not everyone with this gene develops the disease. 

Environmental triggers, such as infections or gut imbalances, may also contribute by activating your immune system if you’re genetically predisposed to the condition.

How does IV infusion therapy treat ankylosing spondylitis?

There’s no cure for ankylosing spondylitis, but the Bioinfusion Center team aims to reduce inflammation, relieve symptoms, and slow progression with advanced intravenous (IV) infusion therapy using biologic medications. 

These medications focus on the parts of your immune system that cause inflammation. By calming the overactive immune response, IV infusions can help reduce pain, stiffness, and swelling, helping you feel better.

They monitor you during and after treatment to ensure safety and effectiveness. When combined with physical therapy and lifestyle adjustments, IV infusions can be a key part of managing ankylosing spondylitis long-term.

Learn more about ankylosing spondylitis by calling the friendly staff to book an appointment or scheduling a consultation online today.