Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine. It occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the spine's joints and ligaments, causing inflammation and pain. This can lead to the fusion of the spine's vertebrae, which can significantly limit a person's mobility and may eventually lead to the need for a wheelchair.
Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis is an autoimmune disorder that can cause chronic pain and stiffness in the joints and ligaments of the spine. It is a type of inflammatory arthritis, which means that the body's own immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues in the spine. This leads to inflammation and pain. The spine can become stiff and lose its range of motion, making it difficult to move.
Risk Factors for Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis is more common in men than women and is most likely to affect people between the ages of 15 and 40. It is more common among people of certain ethnic backgrounds, including those of European, Middle Eastern, Indian, and Asian descent. A person is more likely to develop ankylosing spondylitis if they have a family history of the condition.
Can Ankylosing Spondylitis Lead to Wheelchair Use?
In some cases, ankylosing spondylitis can cause stiffness and loss of range of motion in the spine, leading to difficulty in walking. The severity of the condition varies from person to person, and it is possible for some people to remain mobile without the need for a wheelchair. However, in some cases, the spinal damage caused by ankylosing spondylitis can be severe enough to require the use of a wheelchair.