No, ankylosis and arthritis are not the same. Ankylosis is the abnormal stiffening of a joint due to an abnormal fusion of the bones of the joint. It occurs when the cartilage that normally cushions the bones of a joint is lost or destroyed. Arthritis is a general term used to describe inflammation of the joints. It can involve any joint in the body, including the spine, and can be caused by a variety of conditions, including infection, degenerative joint disease, and autoimmune disorders.
Ankylosis usually results from a traumatic injury or infection, while arthritis is usually the result of an underlying medical condition. Ankylosis tends to be more localized, while arthritis can affect multiple joints throughout the body. Symptoms of ankylosis can include stiffness, pain, limited range of motion, and muscle weakness, while symptoms of arthritis can include pain, swelling, stiffness, and warmth around the affected joint.
Treatment for ankylosis may involve physical therapy to improve range of motion, joint mobilization to reduce stiffness, and medication to reduce pain and inflammation. Treatment for arthritis may involve medications to reduce inflammation, physical therapy to improve range of motion and strength, and lifestyle changes to reduce stress on the joints. Surgery may be recommended in severe cases.