Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis is an inflammatory disease which causes the bones in the spine to fuse over time. The fusing makes the spine less flexible and can result in a hunched posture.

People with the gene HBA-B27 have an increased risk of developing ankylosing spondylitis. However, not all with the gene develop the disease.

In the case of the “Folded Man”, he had suffered from this disease for 28 years, and was left unable to eat, drink or lift his head. Doctors conducted several osteotomies - where his bones were broken and reconstructed. The surgery allowed him to stand, however the condition still prevents him from doing simple motions such as moving his neck.

Learn more about his case here.

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ankylosing-spondylitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354808

https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/what-is-ankylosing-spondylitis

https://metro.co.uk/2019/12/16/man-stands-straight-28-years-surgeons-fix-back-11913152/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ycLWc4bRtg&ab_channel=SouthChinaMorningPost

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