Overview

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the spine and the sacroiliac joints, causing pain, stiffness, and eventual fusion of the vertebrae. This condition can significantly impact posture and mobility if left untreated. Our specialized AS management services provide a comprehensive approach to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management to help patients maintain a good quality of life and minimize complications.

Diagnostic Procedures

1. Clinical Evaluation:
   • A thorough medical history and physical examination to identify hallmark symptoms such as chronic back pain, stiffness, and reduced spinal mobility.
2. Imaging Studies:
   • X-rays: To detect changes in the sacroiliac joints and the spine, such as bone erosion and fusion.
   • MRI: Offers a more detailed view of early inflammation and damage to the sacroiliac joints and spine, even before changes are visible on X-rays.
3. Laboratory Tests:
   • HLA-B27 Testing: While not definitive, the presence of the HLA-B27 gene increases the likelihood of AS.
   • Inflammatory Markers: Elevated levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) may indicate active inflammation.
4. Physical Function Tests:
   • Assessment of spinal mobility, posture, and chest expansion to determine the extent of physical impairment.

Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis

• Chronic Back Pain: Persistent pain and stiffness, particularly in the lower back and hips, that is often worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
• Limited Spinal Mobility: Reduced ability to flex the spine, leading to a stooped posture.
• Pain in Other Joints: Involvement of peripheral joints such as the shoulders, knees, and hips.
• Enthesitis: Inflammation at the sites where tendons and ligaments attach to bone, causing pain and tenderness.
• Fatigue: Persistent tiredness and reduced energy levels.
• Uveitis: Inflammation of the eye, causing redness, pain, and sensitivity to light.

Possible Treatments

1. Medications:
   • Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): First-line treatment to reduce pain and inflammation.
   • Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs): Such as sulfasalazine, for peripheral joint involvement.
   • Biologic Agents: TNF inhibitors or IL-17 inhibitors to target specific inflammatory pathways and reduce disease activity.
   • Corticosteroids: For short-term relief of severe symptoms.
2. Physical Therapy:
   • A tailored exercise program focusing on maintaining spinal mobility, posture, and flexibility.
   • Postural Training: Techniques to improve and maintain good posture and prevent spinal deformity.
   • Breathing Exercises: To improve lung function and chest expansion.
3. Lifestyle Modifications:
   • Exercise: Regular physical activity such as swimming, yoga, and stretching exercises to maintain joint and spinal mobility.
   • Ergonomic Adjustments: Modifying work and home environments to reduce strain on the back and improve comfort.
4. Pain Management:
   • Heat and Cold Therapy: To relieve muscle tension and reduce inflammation.
   • Massage Therapy: To relieve muscle pain and improve circulation.
5. Surgical Interventions:
   • Surgery is generally a last resort but may be considered for severe joint damage or spinal deformities that significantly impact function and quality of life.

Final Results

With early and effective intervention, the progression of AS can be slowed, and the impact on daily life minimized. Our AS management program aims to achieve:

• Symptom Control: Reduction in pain, stiffness, and fatigue.
• Improved Mobility and Functionality: Enhanced spinal mobility and posture through tailored exercise and therapy programs.
• Prevention of Complications: Slowing or preventing the progression of spinal fusion and other complications.
• Enhanced Quality of Life: Enabling patients to maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle.