Only in severe cases of deformity is surgery performed to straighten and realign the spine, or to replace knee, shoulder, or hip joints. Acupuncture , performed by a trained professional, has helped some patients manage their pain. Homeopathic practitioners may prescribe such remedies as Bryonia and Rhus toxicodendron for pain relief. There is no cure for AS, and the course of the disease is unpredictable. Generally, AS progresses for about 10 years and then its progression levels off.
Most patients can lead normal lives with treatment to control symptoms.
When bones of a joint are fused, stiff, or rigid. An antigen or protein marker on cells that may indicate ankylosing spondylitis. Immune suppressing Anything that reduces the activity of the immune system. Inflammation A reaction of tissues to disease or injury, often associated with pain and swelling. Spondylitis An inflammation of the spine.