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Diagnosis & Treatment

Ankylosing Spondylitis

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How is Ankylosing Spondylitis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis

To diagnose ankylosing spondylitis, your doctor will initially perform a physical exam, inquiring after your symptoms and medical history. The exam may involve testing the range of motion of your spine and identifying where you have pain by gently pressing on specific areas.  

There is no singular ankylosing spondylitis test used to diagnose the condition. Types of tests that can aid in determining whether or not you have AS can include:

  • Imaging tests, including X-rays and MRIs to detect changes in the bones and joints of the spine. An MRI can sometimes detect non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis, which cannot be found with an X-ray and can be an early form of AS.
  • Blood tests. A blood test for ankylosing spondylitis can check for markers, such as the HLA-B27 gene, which has been linked to the disease. But having the gene doesn’t mean you’ll develop AS.

How is Ankylosing Spondylitis Treated?

Treatment

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as naproxen and ibuprofen, and disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), such as sulfasalazine, can help with inflammation and pain. Injectable corticosteroids can also provide temporary relief.

Exercise

Movement has proven to help alleviate pain and slow down the progression of AS. Your spine specialist can recommend an exercise routine, or you could work with a physical therapist who specializes in lower back and joint issues.

Diet

Anti-inflammatory diets, such as the Mediterranean diet, can help. Avoiding foods high in sugar and fats, fried foods, and processed meats can fight inflammation. Maintaining a healthy weight can take excess pressure off of your bones and joints.

Lifestyle

Tobacco products can exacerbate symptoms of AS, and excess alcohol consumption may raise your risk of osteoporosis.

Surgery

In some cases, an artificial joint can be surgical implanted to replace a damaged one. Resulting fractures in the spine can be corrected with a procedure called kyphoplasty.

FAQs

FAQs

Ankylosing spondylitis is classified as an inflammatory autoimmune disease.

Ankylosing spondylitis is considered to be a disability by the United States Social Security Administration.

There is no cure for AS, but there are available treatments to help with symptoms and delay or prevent the stiffening and fusing of the spine.
 

This content has been reviewed by the following medical editors.

Evan Johnson, PT

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Trust NewYork-Presbyterian for Ankylosing Spondylitis Treatment

The spinal specialists at NewYork-Presbyterian offer top-notch treatment options for ankylosing spondylitis. Early intervention is key. Our doctors can provide expert solutions soon after your AS symptoms are diagnosed, so you can start managing symptoms and living a pain-free life.

Contact NewYork-Presbyterian today for the best in spinal care.