Definition
The ankylosis consists in the partial or total limitation of the movements of a joint.
This symptom can result from various pathological processes.
Most often, the ankylosis is the consequence of an articular traumatism (fracture) or of an inflammation (acute or chronic arthritis). Possible favoring conditions include advanced age, prolonged immobility of the limb, degeneration of joint tissues and some general diseases, such as gout and rheumatoid arthritis. The ankylosis can also result from the surgical fusion of the two articular heads, following an arthrodesis.
The reduction (or abolition) of the mobility of an articulation can establish flawed attitudes, in almost all irreversible cases. In the event of total ankylosis, to restore the functionality of the affected joint, the treatment is exclusively surgical; if the condition is partial, instead, it is possible to obtain good results with physiotherapy practices.
Ankylosis should not be confused with joint stiffness, which is a transient condition.
Possible Causes * of ankylosis
- Arthritis
- Gouty Arthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Arthrosis
- Gout
- Smallpox
