A genetic deformity of the back caused by the fusing of the vertebrae. Usually found most often in males but in rare cases the gene is passed from father to daughter thus females end up with the disease. If caught early enough, (usually found in early teenage years) the disease can be cured by taking the patient out of physical activity since the disease is thought to be triggered by physical activity. If not caught early enough the patient may be required to see a specialist to be fitted for a