Ankylosing arthritis is a form of autoimmune, chronic inflammatory arthritis that affects the spine and large joints. It causes fusion of vertebrae in the spine which leads to chronic pain and disability over time.

An orthopaedic surgeon or a rheumatologist usually treats ankylosing spondylitis. A physiotherapist can further help in restoring muscle strength and function through exercises.

Persons having HLA-B27 gene are at higher risk of developing ankylosing spondylitis. However, it is not purely a genetic disorder as many people with this gene do not develop this disease.

The condition is not completely curable, but treatment is available for relief of symptoms. Treatment can also help delay complications of the disease.

The common symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis are
- pain and stiffness in back and hip, pain is greater in the morning
- fatigue, loss of mobility
- fever, loss of appetite
- anemia, weight loss
- abnormal posture
- pain in large joints and shoulders