US Medical Term · conditions
Ankylosing Spondylitis
Espondilitis Anquilosante
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Ankylosing Spondylitis |
| Spanish (Español) | Espondilitis Anquilosante |
| Chinese (中文) | 僵直性脊椎炎 |
| Korean (한국어) | 강직성 척추염 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Viêm cột sống dính khớp |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Ankylosing Spondylitis |
| Portuguese (Português) | Espondilite Anquilosante |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | โรคกระดูกสันหลังอักเสบชนิดข้อยึดติด |
| Japanese (日本語) | 強直性脊椎炎 |
What it means
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints, causing pain and stiffness in the lower back and buttocks that is typically worse in the morning or after inactivity. Over time, inflammation can cause spinal vertebrae to fuse, leading to a hunched posture and reduced flexibility. It can also affect the hips, shoulders, eyes, and heart. It is more common in men and often begins in young adulthood. Treatment includes NSAIDs, biologic medications, physical therapy, and posture exercises to maintain spinal mobility and reduce pain.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
I have ankylosing spondylitis and my lower back is very stiff every morning.
Tengo espondilitis anquilosante y mi zona lumbar está muy rígida todas las mañanas.
My ankylosing spondylitis is affecting my hips in addition to my spine.
Mi espondilitis anquilosante está afectando las caderas además de la columna vertebral.
I need a referral to a rheumatologist for my ankylosing spondylitis management.
Necesito una referencia a un reumatólogo para el manejo de mi espondilitis anquilosante.
Where you'll see it
Related ICD-10-CM category
M45 Ankylosing spondylitisRelated terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026