Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory condition that mainly affects the spine. It causes inflammation of the joints between the vertebrae, which are the bones in your spine. Over time, this inflammation can lead to the vertebrae fusing together, making the spine less flexible.

Lumbar Spondylitis: Lumbar spondylitis, on the other hand, is a type of spondylosis. It’s a condition where the discs and bones in the lower back, called the lumbar region, start to wear down and change due to aging and daily wear and tear.

Location of Pain in Ankylosing Spondylitis and Lumbar Spondylitis

• Ankylosing Spondylitis: AS typically affects the entire spine, including the neck and the lower back. It often starts in the lower back but can move up to the neck over time. The pain in AS is often felt in the back and buttocks.

• Lumbar Spondylitis: Lumbar spondylitis, as the name suggests, primarily affects the lumbar region of the spine. The pain is usually concentrated in the lower back.

Inflammatory Nature in Ankylosing Spondylitis and Lumbar Spondylitis

• Ankylosing Spondylitis: AS is an autoimmune disease, which means the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its tissues, causing inflammation. This inflammation is a key feature of AS.

• Lumbar Spondylitis: Lumbar spondylitis is not primarily an inflammatory condition. Inflammation can occur but is not a central characteristic.

Genetics in Ankylosing Spondylitis and Lumbar Spondylitis

• Ankylosing Spondylitis: There is a strong genetic part to AS. It tends to run in families, and a specific gene is often associated with the condition.

• Lumbar Spondylitis: While genetics can play a role in lumbar spondylitis, it’s not as strongly linked to a specific gene as AS.

Treatment Approach in Ankylosing Spondylitis and Lumbar Spondylitis

• Ankylosing Spondylitis: Treatment for AS often involves medications to reduce inflammation, physical therapy, and exercises to maintain flexibility. In some cases, some medications may be used to target the underlying immune response.

• Lumbar Spondylitis: Treatment for lumbar spondylitis focuses on managing pain and improving mobility. It typically involves exercises, pain relief medications, lifestyle modifications, and sometimes, injections or surgery in severe cases.

Dr. Navin Tiwari
Consulting Neurologist