Modern ankylosing spondylitis (AS) treatment can do more than just relieve back pain. Advances in biologic medications, targeted therapies, and personalized treatment plans allow many people with AS to reduce inflammation, slow disease progression, improve mobility, and enhance overall quality of life.

While there is currently no cure for AS, early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent long-term joint damage, allowing patients to remain active and independent.

Understanding what today’s options can realistically achieve is an important step towards managing this chronic condition.

What is Ankylosing Spondylitis?

Ankylosing Spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the spine and the joints where the spine connects to the pelvis, which are known as the sacroiliac joints. AS is a form of inflammatory arthritis and can cause persistent pain, stiffness, and reduced flexibility, especially in the lower back and hips.

Symptoms often begin in early adulthood and tend to worsen during periods of inactivity.

Over time, the chronic inflammation can cause new bone to form between the vertebrae, resulting in some sections of the spine fusing together. This process can further limit mobility and affect posture. AS may also affect other parts of the body, such as the shoulders, ribs, eyes, skin, and digestive system.

What Causes Ankylosing Spondylitis?

The exact cause of AS is not fully understood, but researchers believe it stems from a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

The condition is strongly associated with a gene called HLA-B27, which is a protein on white blood cells that helps the immune system to distinguish between the body’s own cells and foreign ones, such as viruses. However, testing positive for the gene isn’t a definitive diagnosis. A majority of the people who carry HLA-B27 never develop AS. Other genes and immune system factors may also play a role.

AS is considered an autoimmune condition, meaning the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, triggering inflammation, particularly in the spine and joints.

What are the Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis?

The symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis can vary from person to person, but the condition most commonly causes chronic pain and stiffness in the lower back and hips. Symptoms often develop gradually and typically begin before the age of 45. Unlike pain caused by a muscle strain or injury, AS symptoms are often worse after a period of inactivity and improve with movement.

Common symptoms of AS include:

• Persistent lower back pain
• Morning stiffness that lasts longer than 30 minutes
• Reduced flexibility in the spine
• Pain in the hips, buttocks, shoulders, or neck

Some people also experience fatigue, which may be due to ongoing inflammation throughout the body.

AS is a systemic inflammatory disease, so it can affect more than just the spine. Some people also develop inflammation in the eyes, a condition called uveitis, which can cause redness, pain, and sensitivity to light. Others may experience inflammation in the joints, tendons, digestive tract, and other areas of the body.

What Treatments for Ankylosing Spondylitis are Available?

Several treatments are available to help manage AS, reduce inflammation, relieve symptoms, and slow the progression of the disease. 

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often the first line of treatment for AS. These medications can help reduce pain, stiffness, and inflammation. For patients who don’t respond to NSAIDs, doctors may recommend biologic medications, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors and interleukin-17(IL-17) inhibitors. These therapies work by targeting and blocking specific areas of the immune system that contribute to the inflammation.

Physical therapy is another important component in treating AS. Regular exercise, stretching, and posture training can help patients maintain flexibility, improve mobility, and reduce stiffness.

Expert Commentary: How an Ankylosing Spondylitis Treatment Study Can Help

Even though there is no cure for AS, early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of long-term complications. Without treatment, chronic inflammation can lead to structural changes in the spine and reduced mobility over time. 

Our clinic is conducting an Ankylosing Spondylitis treatment study that can help you better manage your symptoms. The first step toward improving your quality of life is taking a few moments to submit your information. One of our team members will contact you to confirm your eligibility and walk you through the next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can ankylosing spondylitis be cured?

No, there is currently no cure for AS. However, treatments can help control inflammation, relieve pain and stiffness, slow disease progression, and improve mobility. Many people with AS can lead active, productive lives with the right treatment.

2. What is the best treatment for ankylosing spondylitis?

The best treatment for AS depends on the individual and the severity of their symptoms. Many patients begin with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), while others may benefit from biologic medications such as TNF inhibitors or IL-17 inhibitors. Physical therapy and exercise are also recommended for the treatment of AS.

3. How is ankylosing spondylitis diagnosed?

Doctors typically diagnose AS using a combination of medical history, physical examination, imaging studies, and laboratory tests. Blood tests may help identify genetic markers associated with AS. X-rays and MRI scans can reveal inflammation or structural changes in the spine and sacroiliac joints.

4. What happens if ankylosing spondylitis is left untreated?

Without treatment, a person with AS can experience worsening pain, reduced flexibility, and permanent damage to their spine and other joints. In some cases, vertebrae fuse together, further limiting mobility and affecting posture. 

5. Can exercise help people with ankylosing spondylitis?

Yes. Regular exercise is essential to managing AS. Activities that improve flexibility, posture, strength, and cardiovascular health can help reduce stiffness and maintain mobility. Patients should work with their healthcare providers or physical therapists to develop an exercise program tailored to their individual needs.