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What is Spondylitis?

Spondylitis is an inflammatory disease that primarily affects the spine and is characterised by pain, rigidity, and discomfort. The vertebrae, the bones that form the spine, become inflamed, leading to new bone growths that eventually fuse parts of the spine. This fusion can reduce mobility and chronic pain as the spine's flexibility is reduced.

The most common form of spondylitis is ankylosing spondylitis (AS), which predominantly affects the lower back and the sacroiliac joints, where the spine and pelvis connect.

What is the Importance of Timely Treatment?

Spondylitis should be treated quickly to prevent spinal fusion, joint injury, and abnormalities. Early treatment improves quality of life, maintains mobility, and reduces pain. It also slows the progression of the disease, increases the effectiveness of treatment, and reduces the risk of complications in other organs. Thus, early treatment can maintain function, prevent permanent disability, and improve long-term outcomes.

What are the Common Symptoms of Spondylitis?

The lower back and pelvis are common chronic pain sites, primarily upon waking or following rest periods.

Stiffness: The stiffness may decrease with activity, such as stretching or exercise, especially in the lower back, hips, and spine.

Less flexibility: The spine can't bend or twist because of stiffness.

Fatigue: A common symptom of inflammatory diseases is being particularly tired or lacking in energy.

Postural Changes: Kyphosis is a forward curvature of the spine that can develop over time and affect posture.

Spine Tenderness: Pain or tenderness when certain spine areas are affected.

Causes and Risk Factors of Spondylitis

Causes

  • Although the cause of ankylosing spondylitis is not established, there is a genetic component. People with the gene HLA-B27 are significantly more likely to develop the condition, but only a tiny percentage of those with the gene do so.

Risk Factors

The following are the significant risk factors for spondylitis:

  • Age: It usually starts manifesting around the age of forty.
  • Genetics: A family history of spinal problems increases the risk.
  • Gender: Women may have worse symptoms later in life, whereas men are more likely to have it earlier.
  • Repetitive Stress: Workplaces or activities that require twisting or heavy lifting might hasten the deterioration of the spine.
  • Poor Posture: Wrong sitting posture or slouching might elevate spinal deterioration.
  • Obesity: Extra weight strains the spine.
  • Prior Spine Injuries: Prior injuries may elevate the risk of degeneration.
  • Sedentary Lifestyle: Not exercising weakens muscles and puts more strain on the spine.
  • Smoking accelerates disc degeneration by lowering the blood supply to the spine.

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Latest Research and Technologies in the Treatment of Spondylitis in India

New advances in the treatment of AS (Ankylosing Spondylitis) in India include: In addition to reducing inflammation and possibly retarding the disease process, MSCs are currently used to replace damaged tissue. Another minimally invasive intervention that is under investigation is exosome therapy.

Spondylitis Prevention Tips

The following valuable tips can help prevent spondylitis, especially ankylosing spondylitis (AS):

Maintain Good Posture: Adopt good posture to reduce joint and spine strain.

Keep Moving: Regular exercise, such as strengthening and stretching, can increase flexibility and reduce stiffness.

Control Weight: Maintaining your weight within a healthy range eases the strain on your spine.

Avoid Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of spinal problems and worsens symptoms.

Ergonomics: Spinal strain happens during day-to-day activities, so utilise an ergonomic workstation and furniture.

Early Diagnosis and Treatment: Seek medical attention immediately to control the inflammation and halt its progression in case of experiencing symptoms.

Treatment options for Spondylitis

Spinal Fusion: Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is commonly treated through spinal fusion, a surgical procedure during this condition when it has progressed to severe pain in the spine, deformation, or injury.


Cost Start From USD 6500 - USD 9500Explore Options

Osteotomy: An osteotomy is a surgical procedure that involves the realignment and cutting of bones to correct abnormalities caused by conditions such as spondylitis.


Cost Start From USD 3500 - USD 4500Explore Options

  • Clinical assessment:

Physical Examination: A medical professional will evaluate posture, pain thresholds, spinal flexibility, and joint mobility. They could also run some tests to look for stiffness or inflammation in the joints and spine.

Blood tests that determine inflammation, which may be elevated in spondylitis, include the C-reactive protein (CRP) and Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR).

HLA-B27 Test: A blood test to check for the presence of the HLA-B27 gene. This gene is strongly associated with ankylosing spondylitis, though not all AS patients have it.

  • Imaging Tests:

X-rays: Ankylosing spondylitis can be detected with X-rays of the spine and pelvis, showing early signs of bone abnormalities, fusion of vertebrae, or joint inflammation.

MRI: Before such severe damage occurs, MRI is more sensitive than X-rays to detect early inflammation, especially in the spine and sacroiliac joints.

CT: A CT scan can provide more details regarding the spine and the joints of the patient in particular conditions, especially when looking for structural damage

MediRehab (chain of Rehab centres - Part of MediGence) provides comprehensive rehabilitation services designed to support spondylitis patients in India. These services include:

  • Physical Therapy
    • Stretchingexercises can help relieve stiffness and increase spinal flexibility. Focus on your shoulders, hips, and lower back.
    • Exercises for Strengthening the Core: By strengthening the core muscles, you may improve posture, lessen joint stress, and support your spine.
    • Posture Training: Pain management and prevention of more spinal deformities can be achieved by education on proper posture.
    • Joint mobilisation: Methods to increase the afflicted joints' range of motion to lessen stiffness and pain.
  • Depending on the situation, your healthcare professional may prescribe medicine to help control your symptoms and support the treatment plan.

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Hospitals for Spondylitis in India

Aster CMI Hospital: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Aster CMI Hospital

Bangalore, India

Aster CMI Hospital located in Bengaluru, India is accredited by JCI, NABH. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:

  • Around 500 bed capacity
  • Primary care to Quaternary care services
  • Outpatient and inpatient departments
  • Day care center for small children
  • Availability of Surgical suites
  • Intensive Care Units
  • 24-hour Emergency and Trauma Care
  • Emergency Unit especially for children
  • Newly launched the Lung and Heart Transplant Centre
  • Video Consultation with doctors available on GraphMyHealth
  • A specialised Aster Center of Excellence for Women & Children
  • Latest Minimally Invasive Procedures being performed
  • Safe Interventional Procedures
  • Control of Infection protocols are strictly followed
  • Aster Holistic Collaborative Care: Aster Palliative Care for lowering suffering if critically ill patients, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Aster Wellness, Psychology, Chronic Pain Management, Nutrition & Dietetic, Podiatry Care etc.
  • 11 Centers of Excellence
  • An academics focus with BSc Program, MEM Program, Pediatric Fellowship Program
  • A streamlined International patient care center with dedicated services and technology enabled processes
Max Super Specialty Hospital, Vaishali: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Max Super Specialty Hospital, Vaishali

Ghaziabad, India

  • Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali, Ghaziabad, is a leading multi-speciality hospital with 387+ beds and 37+ clinical specialities, offering advanced care in Cardiology, Neuro Sciences, Oncology, Orthopaedics, Transplants, Gastroenterology, and Reconstructive Surgery.
  • Supported by 389+ doctors and 1038+ trained staff, the hospital combines state-of-the-art technology, including robotic surgery and advanced imaging systems, with compassionate, patient-centred care.
  • Accredited by NABH and NABL, Max Vaishali is a trusted destination for both domestic and international patients seeking high-quality, integrated medical services.
MGM Healthcare: Top Doctors, and Reviews
MGM Healthcare

Chennai, India

There are a wide variety of healthcare facilities and specialized, targeted treatments provided by MGM HealthCare. Some of its most prominent services are listed below:

Institute of Heart and Lung Transplant and Mechanical Circulatory Support:  Well renowned for having the third-highest number of heart transplants in a year (102) and also the successful completion of several other transplant surgeries and cardiac surgeries.

Cardiac Sciences: They offer a variety of screening tests and facilities including Tilt Table Test, Coronary Angioplasty and Stenting, CT Angiography, Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting, Stress Echocardiogram, Cardiac Stress Test and Cardiac Catheterisation.

Obstetrics and Gynaecology: They provide all services to ensure a woman’s well-being. Some of the services offered are Menstrual Cramps Treatment, Colposcopy, Myomectomy, Vaginal Hysterectomy, Breastfeeding Support, Ovarian Cyst Removal, Menopause Management, Vaginal Birth After Caesarean (VBAC), and Menorrhagia Treatment.

Orthopedics: Bilateral Knee Replacement, Total hip Replacement, and Knee Arthroscopy are all the procedures that are offered in this department.

Liver Transplantation: An exceptionally skilled team of professionals who have performed over 4,000 liver transplant surgeries and an operation theatre and ICU specifically dedicated to HBP surgery is available at the patient’s disposal.

Emergency Medicine: MGM Healthcare has a fully functioning facility dedicated to emergency medicine that operates 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. 

Oncology: The patients will be in the safe hands of well-trained medical personnel qualified in the field of oncology and specialize in procedures like Bowel resection surgery, Biopsy, Lumpectomy, Liver Resection Surgery, Lung Cancer resection surgery, Lymph Node Surgery, and Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. They also provide cancer treatments like Chemotherapy, Immunotherapy, and Targeted Therapy.

Anaesthesiology and SICU: They specialize in the field of local, general and regional anesthesia and work to assist doctors during surgical procedures.

Neurosciences and Spine: The doctors in this department handle difficult procedures like Brain Tumour Surgery, Spine Reconstructive Surgery, Neuro Surgeries, and Spine Surgeries with the utmost ease and professionalism. They also have a specific area dedicated to Neuroanaesthesia and NeuroCritical Care.

Do visit the environment-friendly medical facility in Chennai and experience medical excellence.

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Why Choose India for Spondylitis Treatment?

India is also popular for treating spondylitis due to its modern medical facilities and affordable yet excellent healthcare services. The country offers access to highly qualified physicians, state-of-the-art therapies such as spinal fusion, and contemporary medical tourism infrastructure. It is the most preferred option for those seeking holistic treatment, as patients get tailor-made treatment plans, effective treatment plans, and the latest treatments at a reasonable cost compared to Western countries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is an inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the sacroiliac joints, which connect the spine and pelvis. Chronic inflammation results in pain, stiffness, and, in some cases, fusion of the spinal vertebrae, which reduces movement.

Spondylitis, more specifically ankylosing spondylitis, can be a hereditary disease. A family history of AS may increase the chances of developing it, and it is closely linked to the illness caused by the HLA-B27 gene. Nevertheless, environmental factors may also play a role, and not everyone bearing this gene will develop spondylitis.

In extreme cases, joint damage or abnormalities may need surgical intervention, like spinal fusion.

Here are some tips to manage spondylitis pain:

Corticosteroids, biologics, or NSAIDs can be used to decrease pain and inflammation.

Physical therapy: Regular stretching, posture training, and strengthening exercises to enhance range of motion and reduce stiffness.

Lifestyle Changes: Maintain a healthy weight, exercise at a low-impact level, and carefully care for your posture.

Apply heat to relax muscles and cold to reduce inflammation in hot/cold therapy.

Alternative Therapies: Explore pain management techniques such as yoga, acupuncture, and breathing.

Spondylitis, especially ankylosing spondylitis (AS), can affect the hips, shoulders, eyes (causing uveitis), heart (resulting in problems with the aortic valve), lungs (reducing lung capacity), and peripheral joints (such as knees and ankles).

An anti-inflammatory diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids (from fish and flaxseeds) for people with spondylitis. Lean proteins are also helpful and ensure that people get enough vitamin D.

Spondylitis, especially ankylosing spondylitis (AS), usually develops gradually. Lower back discomfort and stiffness can progress to joint degeneration and spinal fusion, which results in altered posture and decreased flexibility. It may also affect other joints, such as the shoulders and hips.

Yes, if left untreated or not well-managed, spondylitis, especially ankylosing spondylitis (AS), can lead to permanent disability. Chronic inflammation will eventually cause restricted mobility, spinal fusion, and joint degeneration, making simple daily activities challenging.