Ankylosing Spondylitis — What to Watch For and What Helps

Stiff lower back in the morning that eases with movement? That’s a common early sign of ankylosing spondylitis (AS). If you’re here because pain or stiffness won’t quit, this page gives clear, practical info: what AS looks like, how doctors check for it, real treatment options, and simple daily moves that help.

Recognize the signs

AS often starts in the sacroiliac joints (where the spine meets the pelvis) and moves up the spine over time. Watch for these red flags: chronic low back pain lasting more than three months, morning stiffness that improves with exercise, reduced chest expansion, and buttock pain that switches sides. Some people also get fatigue, mild fever, or eye inflammation (uveitis). If these sound familiar, tell your doctor — early assessment matters.

Diagnosis usually uses a mix of history, physical exam, X-rays or MRI, and blood tests like HLA-B27. An MRI can spot inflammation before X-ray changes show up. Don’t ignore persistent symptoms; earlier treatment can protect your spine and joints.

Treatment and everyday care

Treatment aims to reduce pain, slow progression, and keep you moving. Start with non-drug approaches: regular low-impact exercise (walking, swimming), posture work, and specific back stretches taught by a physiotherapist. Sleeping on a firm surface and avoiding propped-up pillows helps keep the spine aligned.

Medications range from over-the-counter pain relief to advanced prescription drugs. NSAIDs like naproxen or ibuprofen are often first-line for pain and stiffness. If symptoms continue, doctors may suggest biologic drugs (TNF inhibitors or IL-17 inhibitors) or newer oral options such as JAK inhibitors — these target immune signals that drive inflammation. Steroids can help short-term for flares but aren’t usually a long-term fix. Decisions about these medicines depend on symptom severity, imaging findings, and your overall health.

Physical therapy and exercise must be part of any plan. Even 20–30 minutes a day of stretching and gentle strengthening makes a difference in chest expansion, posture, and pain. Small, consistent habits beat occasional intense sessions.

Thinking about buying medication online? Use licensed pharmacies, check for a valid prescription requirement, and avoid sites that sell controlled drugs without prescriptions. Talk with your rheumatologist before changing or starting any prescription drug you find online.

When should you see a specialist? If morning stiffness lasts over 30 minutes, pain wakes you at night, or you have new walking or breathing trouble, book a rheumatology consult. Regular follow-ups help adjust treatment and watch for side effects.

Want deeper reads? We’ve covered drug options, alternatives, and safety tips for buying meds online in several articles. Pick one that matches your question and bring notes to your next appointment — being prepared helps you get better care faster.