ankylosing spondylitis

noun

Meaning

A chronic inflammatory disease that causes some of the vertebrae in the spine to fuse together, leading to reduced flexibility and a hunched posture.

Examples

  • He was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis in his early twenties after years of chronic back pain.
  • Physical therapy is a cornerstone of treatment for those living with ankylosing spondylitis to maintain spinal mobility.

Synonyms: AS, Bechterew's disease, spinal arthritis, spondyloarthropathy