Spondylitis: Symptoms and Causes
Reviewed for Clinical Accuracy by Core Concepts Editorial Team
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Spondylitis refers to the inflammation of the spine, usually from autoimmune conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis.
It is much less common, affecting roughly 0.2–1% of the population.
Typical symptoms include:
• Persistent lower back pain
• Morning stiffness lasting >30 minutes
• Pain improving with movement but worse with rest
• can sometimes occur with Buttock or hip pain
• Gradual loss of spinal flexibility
In severe cases, long-term inflammation may cause fusion of the spinal joints, making the spine stiff.
Physiotherapy plays a major role in maintaining spinal flexibility, strengthening supporting muscles and improving posture to reduce load on the spine.
