Ankylosing spondylitis: what to watch for and how to get help

Waking with low back pain that improves after moving? That pattern—pain at night or in the morning that eases with activity—can point to ankylosing spondylitis (AS). AS is a long-term inflammatory condition that mainly hits the spine and sacroiliac joints. It can start in your 20s or 30s and slowly make your spine stiffer if untreated. Knowing the signs and treatment options early makes a big difference.

Common signs and how doctors check for AS

Key symptoms are persistent low back pain, stiffness after rest, hip or buttock pain, and reduced chest expansion with deep breaths. Some people also get eye inflammation (uveitis) or problems in peripheral joints. To diagnose AS, doctors use your story, a physical exam, blood tests (like HLA‑B27 and markers of inflammation), and imaging—X‑rays or MRI. MRI catches early inflammation before X‑ray changes appear.

Treatments that actually help day to day

Treatment aims to cut inflammation, control pain, keep motion, and stop structural damage. First-line is usually NSAIDs for pain and inflammation—simple and effective for many. Regular physiotherapy and daily stretching are crucial: they keep your posture flexible and reduce stiffness. Your physio will show you targeted exercises for spine mobility and chest expansion.

If symptoms persist, modern biologic drugs can be game-changers. TNF inhibitors and IL‑17 inhibitors reduce inflammation and improve function for many people with active disease. Traditional DMARDs like methotrexate or sulfasalazine are less useful for spine symptoms but may help peripheral joint problems. For some cases, immunosuppressants such as azathioprine are considered—if you want reliable info on those meds, check articles like “DMARDs Compared” and our guide “How to Safely Buy Imuran Online.”

Regular monitoring matters. Your rheumatologist will track symptoms, function, and any drug side effects. Simple lifestyle steps help too: quit smoking (it speeds progression), keep active, sleep on a firm mattress, and practice posture exercises. Surgery is rare but may be needed for severe joint damage.

Want quick practical steps? 1) See a rheumatologist if back pain lasts more than 3 months and wakes you at night. 2) Start a physiotherapy program that focuses on mobility and posture. 3) Ask about biologic options if NSAIDs and exercise don’t control symptoms. 4) Learn about medication safety and sourcing—our site has plain guides on DMARDs and buying medications safely.

If you’re unsure whether your back pain could be AS, bring a clear symptom log to your doctor—note times pain wakes you, what helps, and any joint or eye problems. That simple habit speeds diagnosis and gets you moving toward treatment that works.