Ankylosing Spondylitis is inflammation of joints involving spine, sacro-iliac or hip joint as well as other joints of the body.

 

Ankylosing spondylitis is suspected if one or more of these symptoms are present 

• Low back or buttock pain

• Pain, swelling or stiffness of joints 

• Pain or stiffness worse early in the morning 

• Back pain worsening with rest but improving with exercise/ pain killers

• History of back pain/ arthritis in family members 

• Pain in heels or sole of feet

• Uveitis (painful red eye), psoriasis (scaly skin rashes), inflammatory bowel disease (frequent loose stools or blood in stools)

 

Why treat Ankylosing Spondylitis early?

• Relief in pain and stiffness

• Prevention of bone damage and permanent deformity 

• Improve fatigue and quality of life

• Untreated ankylosing spondylitis can cause weakness of bones (osteoporosis), joint damage requiring hip or knee replacement, posture abnormalities (stooping)

 

Which doctor to consult for Ankylosing Spondylitis treatment?

A Rheumatologist is the best specialist for medical management of ankylosing spondylitis and other joint diseases, (Orthopedic specialists mainly deal with the surgical management of joint diseases). A rheumatologist is well experienced and up to date with the use of various new drugs which have recently become available for ankylosing spondylitis treatment. 

 

How is Ankylosing Spondylitis treated?

There are a lot of drugs available for treatment of ankylosing spondylitis, including NSAID and DMARD tablets, biologics injections, joint injections and oral Jakinibs. Your rheumatologist will discuss these treatment options with you and prepare an individualized treatment plan based on your disease severity and general fitness. Apart from medication, exercise and physiotherapy also an important part of ankylosing spondylitis treatment.