Ankylosis

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Ankylosis

Ankylosis (pronounced: an-ky-LO-sis) is a medical condition characterized by stiffness or fixation of a joint due to disease, injury, or surgical procedure. The term is derived from the Greek word 'ankylos', meaning 'crooked'.

Etymology

The term 'Ankylosis' is derived from the Greek word 'ankylos', which means 'crooked'. It was first used in medical literature to describe the condition where a joint becomes immovable or stiff due to disease or injury.

Definition

Ankylosis is a condition where the flexibility of a joint is lost due to the fusion of the bones that make up the joint. This can occur as a result of a variety of conditions, including arthritis, infection, trauma, or surgery. The condition can affect any joint in the body, but it is most commonly seen in the spine, hip, and knee.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of ankylosis is the loss of mobility in the affected joint. This can range from mild stiffness to complete immobility. Other symptoms may include pain, swelling, and a decreased range of motion.

Causes

Ankylosis can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:

  • Arthritis: This is a group of diseases that cause inflammation of the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis are two types of arthritis that can lead to ankylosis.
  • Infection: Infections in a joint can lead to ankylosis if not treated promptly.
  • Trauma: Injuries to a joint, such as fractures or dislocations, can lead to ankylosis.
  • Surgery: Surgical procedures on a joint can sometimes lead to ankylosis, particularly if the joint is not properly rehabilitated after surgery.

Treatment

Treatment for ankylosis depends on the underlying cause of the condition. In some cases, physical therapy and exercises may be recommended to improve joint mobility. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to restore function to the joint.

Related Terms

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