Ankylosing spondylitis masquerading as generalized spasticity in a patient with spinal cord injury in neurological rehabilitation setting: A case report

Abstract

A thorough history and examination in rehabilitation settings are paramount. We present a case of spinal cord injury with quadriparesis with severe axial stiffness and increasing spasticity not responding to high doses of medication. Only after repeated inquiry, patient gave history of symptoms suggestive of ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Initiating treatment for AS resulted in decreased stiffness and spasticity and improved functional outcome in the patient.

Keywords: Ankylosing spondylitis; Rehabilitation; Spinal cord injury.