What are the concerns with having ankylosing spondylitis?

Chronic back pain: This type of arthritis causes pain and limitation of motion in the lower back. Over time there can be significant impairment of normal activities of daily living.

Several things: It is a painful condition early on. Sleeping and resting in the most comfortable position lead to poor posture, and if the disease is full blown and fuses the spine, it ends up fused (stiff) in a bad position. This bent forward position can worsen and interfere with daily life activities. Good medication, good posture, proper therapy can prevent these problems and reduce the need for major surgery.