Ankylosing spondylitis is an inflammatory disease that causes pain and stiffness in the small bones in the spine (vertebrate). This fusing of bone or inflammation can cause the spine to become stiff and result in a hunched-forward posture. Pain caused by fusing can be intense and chronic. In many cases, new bone may develop on the spine, which leads to deformity.

If the damage extends to the ribs, a person may find it hard to breathe normally.

Ankylosing spondylitis affects men than it affects women in general. Initially, it affects your lower back but may also spread to other areas of the body, including your neck or joints or your eyes as well.