This disease, associated with a genetic predisposition, most often affects young adults, before 45 years.
“It hurts all the time.” The 28 -year -old Louane singer revealed from ankylosing spondylitis in the Alice Underground podcast on September 3, 2025. This disease is characterized by chronic inflammation of the joints, ligaments and sometimes tendons, explains Dr. Eléonore Berard, rheumatologist. It is associated with a genetic predisposition, in particular the frequent presence of the marker HLA-B27. It can affect people of all ages, but is most often diagnosed in young adults before 45 years. It has a higher prevalence in men than in women.
Symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis can be subtle at first and resemble other conditions which complicates the diagnosis. A first symptom most often comes back in patients: the damage to the spine: “Ankylosing spondylitis will cause inflammation of the back (therefore pain), and at the level of the sacroiliac joints, located at the junction between the sacrum (lower part of the spine) and the iliac bone (bone of the basin)“, Details the specialist. Hips, knees and shoulders can also be painful, swollen and steep.”This inflammation leads to a significant morning stiffness, which can last for hours and improve with physical activity, and awakenings at the end of the night because of the pain“, she continues. The disease evolves slowly but can”In some cases, lead to a merger of the vertebral or sacroiliac joints, resulting in a loss of mobility“Explains our interlocutor.
The disease can affect the joints of the ankles, knees, wrists, shoulders, or hands, or not associated or not with the harness of the spine and the pelvis. “”Symptoms can be pain or swelling of these joints, fingers or toes (dactylitis) often asymmetrical, or inflammation of the tendons “. In addition to joint symptoms and spine, can associate an inflammation of the eyes (uveitis), skin like psoriasis and digestive tract. People may feel significant fatigue, which can be linked to constant inflammation and pain management.
Treatment may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, biological drugs (inhibitors of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) or other inflammation molecules) or in some cases, anti-utumeismism drugs of the disease (DMARD). “”However, their effectiveness may vary from person to person“, Recognizes Dr. Berard. In addition, a regular exercise program, supervised by a physiotherapist, can help maintain the flexibility and mobility of the joints. Specific exercises can be recommended to strengthen the muscles around the spine and the rib cage. Regular follow -up with a rheumatologist is essential to adjust the treatment plan as a function of the evolution of the disease and response to treatment.
