Ankylosing Spondylitis

Up to 14 in 100,000 people have ankylosing spondylitis, a chronic inflammatory disease and form of arthritis often resulting in low back pain. At Rheumatology East, with locations in Germantown and Jackson, Tennessee, board-certified rheumatologist Bradley Postlethwaite, MD, treats ankylosing spondylitis and similar conditions to ease discomfort. Schedule an evaluation by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.

What is ankylosing spondylitis?

Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis and autoimmune disease that impacts joints within the spine. This condition is also referred to as axial spondyloarthritis. It affects the sacroiliac joints connecting your spine to your pelvis. These joints are some of the largest in the body. Ankylosing spondylitis can also negatively impact the hips, shoulders, knees, and other joints. 

Which symptoms can ankylosing spondylitis cause?

Ankylosing spondylitis can cause the following symptoms:

• Stiffness
• Pain
• Gastrointestinal symptoms
• Lower back pain
• Hip discomfort
• Pain in the buttocks
• Abdominal discomfort
• Neck pain
• Trouble moving the lower back or hips
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Unexplained weight loss
• Shortness of breath

You might also experience vision problems, eye inflammation, diarrhea, or skin rashes because of ankylosing spondylitis. This condition increases your risk of spinal fractures, fused vertebrae, osteoporosis, heart problems, nerve damage, or kyphosis (abnormal curve in the spine). 

What increases the risk of ankylosing spondylitis?

While anyone may develop ankylosing spondylitis, specific risk factors include:

• Genetic mutations
• Family history of ankylosing spondylitis
• Being male
• Ulcerative colitis
• Crohn’s disease
• Psoriasis 
• Being younger than 40

About 80% of people with ankylosing spondylitis receive a diagnosis when they’re about 30 years old. However, the exact cause of ankylosing spondylitis isn’t fully clear.

How is ankylosing spondylitis diagnosed?

Dr. Postlethwaite can diagnose ankylosing spondylitis by discussing your symptoms and medical history, completing a physical examination, and ordering diagnostic tests. He may suggest blood tests, X-rays, an MRI, or similar diagnostic procedures to confirm a diagnosis and develop an effective treatment plan. 

How is ankylosing spondylitis treated?

Your individualized ankylosing spondylitis treatment may include one or more of the following:

• Regular physical activity
• Healthy diet
• Physical therapy
• Cortisone injections
• Biologics medicines
• Over-the-counter medications
• Prescription anti-inflammatory medicines
• Surgery

It’s also helpful to avoid smoking and practice good posture. Dr. Postlethwaite alters your treatment plan if necessary to find a solution that works best for you. He follows up to ensure a successful outcome. If you need surgery for severe pain, he may refer you to an orthopedic specialist. 

Schedule an evaluation at Rheumatology East by phone or request one online today to discover relief from ankylosing spondylitis.