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Most of us have dealt with back pain at some point, whether from heavy lifting, an old mattress, or just life in general. But what if your pain isn’t going away? What if it actually gets worse when you rest? Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is an autoimmune condition that can cause long-term spinal damage if left undiagnosed.
This condition is more common in young adults aged 17 to 35, but it can take years to be properly diagnosed due to its subtle and progressive onset.1 Recognizing the early signs of AS could make all the difference in slowing its progression and maintaining your mobility.
If you’ve been experiencing persistent back pain, stiffness in the morning, or unexplained fatigue, you may be dealing with more than just everyday discomfort.
What Is Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis that causes inflammation in the spine, leading to chronic pain and, in some cases, fusion of the vertebrae or chest bones.1 It is a subset of spondyloarthritis, a group of autoimmune diseases that cause joint inflammation. Over time, the inflammation can lead to new bone formation, causing sections of the spine to become immobile.2
Unlike mechanical back pain that improves with rest, AS-related pain tends to worsen with inactivity and improves with movement.3 Though AS most commonly affects the lower back, it can also impact other joints, tendons, and even organs, such as the eyes and heart. Early detection is essential in preventing impaired spinal mobility and long-term complications.
The Importance of Early Detection
Catching ankylosing spondylitis early can make a world of difference in managing symptoms and slowing disease progression. Since AS is a progressive condition, early intervention with the right treatment can prevent severe complications, such as spinal fusion or permanent joint damage.4
Many people initially mistake AS symptoms for common back pain or muscular strain, delaying proper diagnosis and treatment. By identifying early warning signs, rheumatologists can develop a treatment plan that includes medications, physical therapy, and/or lifestyle modifications to maintain the patient’s mobility and manage their discomfort.
Common Early Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis
The initial symptoms of AS can be subtle and easily mistaken for other conditions. However, certain patterns of pain and discomfort may indicate a deeper issue. Here are some of the most common early signs to watch for:
Morning Stiffness
One of the hallmark symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis is stiffness in the lower back and hips, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity. This stiffness typically lasts for 30 minutes or more and may improve with movement.5 Unlike regular muscle stiffness, AS-related stiffness is due to inflammation in the spine and sacroiliac joints.
Hip and Buttock Discomfort
Pain in the lower back, hips, and buttocks is another early symptom of AS. This discomfort often presents as a dull, deep ache rather than a sharp pain. The pain may start on one side and gradually affect both sides over time.6 Since the sacroiliac joints (located at the base of the spine) are commonly inflamed in AS, hip and buttock pain is one of the most common symptoms.7
Pain Relief with Activity
Unlike typical back pain that worsens with movement, AS-related pain tends to improve with physical activity and stretching. Many individuals notice that their stiffness and discomfort lessen as they move throughout the day.5
Heel Pain
Heel pain, particularly in the Achilles tendon or the bottom of the heel, can be an unexpected but telling symptom of ankylosing spondylitis. This occurs due to inflammation in the entheses — the areas where tendons and ligaments attach to bones. If you’ve been experiencing persistent heel pain without a clear cause, AS may be a contributing factor.8
Fatigue
Chronic inflammatory diseases can take a toll on the body, leading to persistent fatigue that doesn’t seem to go away with rest. People with AS often feel physically drained, even after a full night’s sleep. This exhaustion is not only due to disrupted sleep from pain but also the body’s ongoing inflammatory response.5
Eye Inflammation (Uveitis)
Acute anterior uveitis, or inflammation of the eye, is a common complication of AS and may present as eye redness, pain, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision. It can develop suddenly and may recur over time. Since untreated uveitis can lead to vision problems, it’s important to seek medical attention if you notice any unusual eye symptoms.9
Risk Factors and Genetic Predisposition
While the exact cause of ankylosing spondylitis remains unclear, certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing the condition. One of the most significant factors is genetics, particularly the presence of the HLA-B27 gene. Although not everyone with this gene develops AS, it is commonly found in individuals diagnosed with the condition.1
Other risk factors include:
- Age: AS typically develops between the ages of 17 to 35.
- Sex: Men are more likely to develop AS than women, though the condition can affect both genders.
- Family History: Having a close relative with AS increases the risk.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
If you’re experiencing persistent lower back pain, stiffness, or any of the other symptoms mentioned above, it may be time to consult a rheumatologist. Because ankylosing spondylitis is a progressive condition, early diagnosis is crucial for preventing long-term complications.
A healthcare professional will likely perform a physical exam, order imaging tests (such as X-rays or MRIs), and may request blood tests to check for inflammatory markers. Getting an accurate diagnosis is the first step in managing chronic inflammation and maintaining an active, pain-free life.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you suspect you may have ankylosing spondylitis or have been struggling with unexplained back pain and stiffness, don’t wait to seek help. At IDYLLIC Infusion Treatment Center, we work hand-in-hand with ARBDA rheumatologists who specialize in diagnosing and treating ankylosing spondylitis and other rheumatic diseases, like rheumatoid arthritis. Our compassionate team is here to help you find relief and improve your quality of life.
Take the first step toward better health by scheduling your consultation today! We’re here to support you on your journey to managing AS effectively.
1https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/ankylosing-spondylitis
2https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3403253/
3https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/ankylosing-spondylitis
4https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22272527/
5https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16447233/
7https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/ankylosing-spondylitis?utm_source=chatgpt.com
8https://www.podiatryhealthservices.com/blogs/item/67-ankylosing-spondylitis-and-heel-pain
9https://nass.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Uveitis-factsheet-2015.pdf
