ABSTRACT
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) tends to cause fixed flexion deformities of the spine, hips and knees. Severe combined flexion deformities of the hips and spine result in a profoundly flexed posture, with loss of the visual horizon, limitation in capacity to function outdoors, reduction in quality of life and clinical depression. The aim of non-operative treatment is to prevent the progression of deformity and to encourage ankylosis in an acceptable posture. Surgical treatment is reserved for patients with severe deformities who feel that their quality of life is wholly unacceptable.
