A CHRONIC INFLAMMATORY DISEASE OF THE SPINE
Ankylosing Spondylitis
A chronic inflammatory arthritis primarily affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints, causing back pain, stiffness and progressive loss of flexibility. Managed with structured therapy and specialist co-management.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints, where the spine meets the pelvis. Over time, ongoing inflammation can lead to fusion of spinal bones, causing significant loss of flexibility and a characteristic forward-stooped posture. AS typically begins in late adolescence or young adulthood and is more common in men. It is strongly associated with the HLA-B27 gene. Typical features include gradual onset of low back pain and stiffness — worst in the morning and after rest, improving with activity — buttock pain, hip and shoulder involvement, fatigue and sometimes inflammation in other parts of the body including the eyes (uveitis), bowel and skin. Diagnosis is based on clinical features, imaging (X-ray and MRI of the sacroiliac joints) and HLA-B27 testing. Treatment includes structured exercise, physiotherapy, anti-inflammatory therapy, disease-modifying therapy and biological therapy in selected cases. Early diagnosis and treatment significantly improve outcomes. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides initial evaluation and co-management with rheumatology at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Strong association with the HLA-B27 gene
- Family history of ankylosing spondylitis or related conditions
- More common in men, typically beginning in young adulthood
- Autoimmune attack on joints and entheses (where tendons attach to bone)
- Environmental triggers in genetically susceptible individuals
- Linked to inflammatory bowel disease and psoriasis in some patients
- Exact triggers not fully understood
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Clinical features, X-ray and MRI of sacroiliac joints, HLA-B27 testing and inflammation markers
Mild · Moderate · Severe — based on inflammation, mobility and complications
Exercise, physiotherapy, anti-inflammatory therapy, disease-modifying and biological therapy
Critical part of treatment — maintains flexibility and reduces stiffness
Eye inflammation, IBD and psoriasis may co-exist
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad — co-managed with rheumatology
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Structured Exercise with Targeted Medical Therapy
The most effective approach combines daily structured exercise and physiotherapy to maintain spinal flexibility, anti-inflammatory therapy for pain and stiffness, biological therapy in selected cases under rheumatology care, and regular monitoring of disease activity and complications.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews symptoms, examines spinal flexibility and arranges imaging including MRI of the sacroiliac joints and HLA-B27 testing.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A personalised plan is created in coordination with rheumatology, including exercise, physiotherapy and medical therapy.
- 3
Medical Management
Anti-inflammatory therapy, biological therapy in selected cases, structured exercise, physiotherapy and management of co-existing conditions.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Long-term follow-up with rheumatology including monitoring of disease activity, spinal mobility and treatment response.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Daily Structured Exercise and Physiotherapy (Referral for physiotherapy)
Daily exercises focused on spinal flexibility, posture, strengthening and breathing are essential and should be lifelong.
Anti-Inflammatory Therapy
Anti-inflammatory medical therapy is highly effective for pain and stiffness in ankylosing spondylitis and is often the first-line treatment.
Biological Therapy in Selected Cases (Referral for rheumatology)
Biological therapy is used for patients with persistent inflammation despite anti-inflammatory therapy, often producing significant improvement.
Posture and Lifestyle Advice
Good posture habits, ergonomic adjustments, avoiding prolonged sitting, regular breaks and not smoking significantly help.
Management of Eye Inflammation (Referral for ophthalmology)
Acute uveitis needs urgent ophthalmology evaluation and treatment to prevent vision-threatening complications.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure about your condition?
Compassionate, confidential consultations — Book your appointment today.