This article provides a detailed overview of various spondylitis types, their symptoms, and classifications. It highlights key differences between traditional and newer understandings, helping readers recognize symptoms early. The information emphasizes the importance of consulting healthcare providers for accurate diagnosis and treatment options.

Spondylitis, also known as axial spondyloarthritis, is a type of arthritis that causes degeneration of the spine due to aging or wear and tear over time. This condition includes features like bone spurs and disc degeneration, which can limit spinal mobility and compress nerves, leading to mild discomfort that can intensify with certain movements. Many people over 60 may not show noticeable symptoms, yet the condition remains common in this age group.

The Spondylitis Association of America categorizes spondylitis into traditional and newer types. The classic system identifies six categories, including ankylosing spondylitis, enteropathic arthritis, reactive arthritis, undifferentiated spondyloarthritis, juvenile forms, and others. Each type has distinct symptoms and development patterns.

Ankylosing spondylitis: This condition involves inflammation of the spine and pelvis, typically starting before age 45. Symptoms include back pain that worsens with rest and improves with activity, along with morning stiffness lasting around half an hour. Over time, it can cause vertebral fusion, resulting in a stiff spine, and may also affect hips and shoulders.

Other common types include enteropathic arthritis, associated with inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, which causes back and joint pain combined with digestive symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, and weight loss. Reactive arthritis follows infections, leading to joint and mucous membrane inflammation without directly involving the spine, usually lasting 3-12 months.

Psoariatic arthritis affects roughly 30% of psoriasis patients, leading to joint pain and nail changes, sometimes involving the spine. Undifferentiated spondyloarthritis shows similar symptoms but lacks a clear classification. Juvenile spondyloarthritis occurs in children and teenagers, affecting entheses and peripheral joints.

Recent classifications divide spondylitis into axial spondyloarthritis, which involves the spine and pelvis, and peripheral spondyloarthritis, affecting limb joints and tendons. The radiographic form shows changes on X-rays, while the nonradiographic form lacks visible changes but shares similar symptoms.

Note:

This content is for informational purposes based on current research and does not replace professional medical advice. For diagnosis and treatment, consult a healthcare professional.