As severe ankylosing spondylitis advances:
- The head moves forward and the neck becomes stiff.
- The upper back curves forward (kyphosis).
- The normal curve in the low back flattens.
- The hips may become stiff and not straighten completely.
- People often keep their knees bent a little to make up for the changed curves in their back and stiffness in their hips. This bending of the knees causes the body to shift back a little so it's easier to balance and to see straight ahead.
Current as of: July 31, 2024
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Current as of: July 31, 2024