Bechterew's disease, also known as ankylosing spondylitis, is a chronic inflammatory rheumatic disease that mainly affects the spine and sacroiliac joints. In the affected areas, there may be progressive ossification of the spine, resulting in increasing limitation of movement.
It is a rare disease, affecting about 1% of the population, and most commonly occurs in males between the ages of 14 and 40.
Causes of Bechterew's disease
The exact cause of Bechterew's disease is not yet fully understood. However, genetic factors are thought to play a role. A genetic predisposition associated with the HLA-B27 gene may increase the risk of developing the disease, but not everyone with this gene develops Bechterew's disease.
In addition to genetic predisposition, infections and environmental factors could likely play a role in the development. It is also suspected that inflammation in the areas of the reproductive organs, urethra and intestine may be possible triggers of the disease.
Symptoms of Bechterew's disease
Symptoms of Bechterew's disease can vary from person to person. In some, the disease can progress quickly and lead to severe limitations, while in others, symptoms are mild and do not worsen over time.
Common symptoms include:
Inflammation of the sacroiliac joints with morning stiffness and nighttime pain in the lumbar spine
Stiffness in the spine that often improves with movement
Increasing limitation of mobility of spine (detectable by Schober's sign and Ott's sign) and rib cage
Pain and stiffness in the hips and shoulders
Inflammation of the joints of the lower extremities
Involvement of the Achilles tendon insertion excruciating heel pain, often heel spurs
Tiredness and fatigue
Inflammation of the eyes (iridocyclitis) may occur in some individuals
Chronic inflammatory bowel disease
In the final stages of the disease, there may be complete stiffening of the spine with a forward bent posture.
Diagnosis of Bechterew's disease
Diagnosis of Bechterew's disease can be made through a combination of patient history, physical examination, blood tests, and imaging. Imaging may include x-rays and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to detect inflammatory changes in the spine and sacroiliac joints.
Treatment for Bechterew's disease
There is no cure for Bechterew's disease, but there are treatments that can help relieve symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. Treatment aims to reduce pain and stiffness, maintain mobility, and prevent complications.
Treatment may include medications to reduce inflammation and relieve pain, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), biologic medications (biologics) and, in some cases, corticosteroids.
Targeted strength training is an essential part of treatment. It aims to train the spine three-dimensionally over its full range of motion, thereby maintaining mobility and an upright posture. At the same time, pain can be alleviated and general well-being improved.
A healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular physical activity can also help relieve symptoms and promote overall health.
Smoking can worsen the symptoms of Bechterew's disease and should be avoided.
Disclaimer
With this article the Rehbein group and its affiliated companies do not make any healing promises. The use and implementation of all advice is at your own responsibility.
All content offered by the Rehbein group and its affiliated companies, such as nutrition programs, tips, videos and training advice are in no way a substitute for medical advice, examination or treatment.