Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS)
What Is Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a type of inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine—especially where it connects to the pelvis (sacroiliac joints). It’s an autoimmune condition, meaning your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, causing chronic inflammation that can lead to pain, stiffness, and over time, a loss of flexibility.
In some cases, the inflammation triggers new bone growth in the spine, which can lead to fusion of the vertebrae—creating what’s sometimes called a “bamboo spine.”
AS often starts in young adulthood, typically before age 45, and while it’s more common in men, it can affect anyone.
Signs & Symptoms of AS
Recognizing the signs of Ankylosing Spondylitis early can help prevent long-term joint damage and preserve mobility. Key symptoms include:
Spinal & Joint-Related
- Chronic back pain and stiffness, especially in the lower back and buttocks
- Pain that’s worse in the morning or after rest, but improves with movement
- Nighttime pain that may wake you from sleep
- Reduced spinal flexibility and range of motion
- Neck or shoulder pain as inflammation progresses
Enthesitis (tendon/ligament inflammation)
- Pain at the heel (Achilles tendon) or bottom of the foot
- Discomfort at the chest wall or hips where tendons connect to bone
Systemic Symptoms
- Fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest
- Eye inflammation (uveitis/iritis) causing pain, redness, or blurred vision
- Occasional fevers, loss of appetite, or digestive symptoms
IF YOU ‘RE A YOUNGER ADULT WITH CHRONIC BACK PAIN THAT EASES WITH MOVEMENT-NOT REST-TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR. EARLY DIAGNOSIS MATTERS.
How We Diagnose AS
Because AS symptoms can mimic more common back pain, getting an accurate diagnosis takes time, experience, and careful evaluation.
At Piedmont Arthritis Clinic, our board-certified rheumatologists use a step-by-step approach:
MEDICAL HISTORY
Detailed medical history to identify patterns of inflammatory back pain
PHYSICAL EXAM
Physical exam to assess spinal flexibility, tenderness at entheses, and joint function
BLOODWORK
Bloodwork to look for inflammatory markers (ESR, CRP) and the HLA-B27 genetic marker
IMAGING
X-rays or MRI scans to identify inflammation or early structural changes in the sacroiliac joints and spine
We consider all these factors together—not just test results—to reach an accurate diagnosis and get you started on the right path.
Treatment Options at Piedmont Arthritis
Living with AS doesn’t mean living in constant pain. We offer personalized, evidence-based treatments to reduce inflammation, preserve mobility, and help you stay active.
Your treatment may include:
NSAIDs
(like naproxen or prescription-strength anti-inflammatories) for pain and stiffness
Biological Therapies
(like TNF or IL-17 inhibitors) to target the immune system and slow progression
Oral Targeted Therapies or JAK inhibitors,
when appropriate
Corticosteroid injections
to relieve localized joint or tendon pain during flares
Lifestyle Guidance
to support posture, movement, and long-term mobility
We also refer to trusted physical therapists in the community for personalized exercise programs that focus on stretching, strengthening, and posture improvement—essential components of AS care.
Getting Started With Care
If your doctor suspects Ankylosing Spondylitis, they can send a referral directly to our office. Piedmont Arthritis Clinic accepts new patients by referral only.
Most appointments are scheduled 4 to 5 months out, but urgent cases may be seen sooner.
Expert Care, Close to Home
Ankylosing Spondylitis is a lifelong condition, but with the right diagnosis and treatment, it’s possible to protect your spine and live well. At Piedmont Arthritis Clinic, we provide compassionate care with clinical excellence—helping you move through life with strength and confidence.