Ankylosing Spondylitis: Is There a Permanent Cure?

When it comes to back pain, most of us think it’s just part of everyday life – maybe from bad posture, sleeping funny, or sitting too long at work. But for some people, it’s a sign of something more serious. One condition that often hides behind everyday aches is ankylosing spondylitis.

If you’ve just been diagnosed or you’re worried about your symptoms, don’t panic. Let’s sit down and talk about what ankylosing spondylitis really is, why it happens, and what you can do about it. If you're experiencing similar symptoms, don't hesitate to consult our expert Rheumatologists at CK Birla Hospital, Jaipur, for accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment.

What is ankylosing spondylitis?

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS for short) is a type of arthritis, but it’s not like the kind you get in your hands or knees. It mainly affects your spine. Over time, it can cause the bones in your back to fuse together, making you feel stiff and limiting how much you can move.

Now, that sounds scary, but the good news is that most people with AS find ways to manage it well with the right treatment. It doesn’t usually happen overnight either – it’s a slow process. Plus, it can sometimes cause pain in your hips, shoulders, and ribs and even affect your eyes too.

What are the symptoms?

You might be wondering how to tell the difference between regular back pain and AS. Here are some common signs to watch out for:

• Back pain and stiffness, especially first thing in the morning or after sitting still for a while.
• Pain that eases with movement – weirdly enough, exercise often makes it feel better, not worse.
• Feeling tired all the time.
• Pain in other joints like the hips or shoulders.
• Inflammation in the eyes (this can cause redness, pain, or blurred vision).

Symptoms can come and go too. You might have periods where everything flares up, followed by stretches where you feel almost normal.

What causes ankylosing spondylitis?

Here’s the thing: doctors still aren’t exactly sure why some people get AS. However, they do know that genes play a big role. Most people with AS have a gene called HLA-B27. That said, just having the gene doesn’t guarantee you’ll get AS. Other things like infections or environmental triggers might also play a part, but it’s still a bit of a mystery. One thing’s for sure: it’s not your fault. It’s not because of anything you did or didn’t do.

Can ankylosing spondylitis be cured permanently?

This is the question nearly everyone asks after a diagnosis: Can it be cured?

Sadly, no. At least not yet. Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic (long-term) condition, which means it sticks around. But – and this is important – just because it can’t be cured doesn’t mean you can’t live a full, happy life.

Many people manage their symptoms really well with a combination of treatments, exercise, and lifestyle changes. The earlier you catch it and start treatment, the better you can control it.

Treatment Options for Ankylosing Spondylitis

Right, so how do you actually manage ankylosing spondylitis? The good news is there are quite a few options, and most people find a combination that works for them.

Medication

• Most people start with anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen. These help with pain and swelling.
• If those don’t do enough, your doctor might suggest biologics. These are special medicines that target the parts of your immune system causing the inflammation. They can make a huge difference for some people.
• Sometimes, if a certain joint is really bad, you might get a steroid injection straight into it.

Exercise and Physiotherapy

• It might feel like the last thing you want to do when your back hurts, but moving is key. Regular, gentle exercise can help keep your spine flexible and strong. Swimming, walking, and stretching – all brilliant choices.
• A physiotherapist can give you a personal plan that suits your situation. Keeping good posture is really important too.

Lifestyle Tweaks

• There are little things you can do every day to make life easier:
• Stay active, even if it’s just a few stretches here and there.
• Eat a balanced diet – calcium and vitamin D are especially important for keeping your bones strong.
• Quit smoking if you can, because smoking can make AS worse.
• Look after your mental health – living with a long-term condition can be tough, and it’s okay to ask for help.

Surgery (Rarely)

• Most people with AS won’t ever need surgery, but in some cases, if a joint is badly damaged (especially the hips) or if the spine has fused badly, surgery might be an option.

Final Thoughts

Ankylosing spondylitis might sound daunting at first, but remember: you’re not alone. Thousands of people live full, active lives with AS every day. The key is to catch it early, stick to your treatment plan, and listen to your body. Some days will be harder than others, and that’s okay. Be kind to yourself. And if you’re ever unsure, struggling, or just need someone to talk to, reach out – whether that’s to your doctor, a support group, or friends and family. You’ve got this.

FAQs

What are the stages of ankylosing spondylitis?

Ankylosing spondylitis typically progresses from early inflammation and back stiffness to reduced flexibility and, in severe cases, fusion of the spine over time.

Can ankylosing spondylitis patients go to the gym?

Yes, with guidance; low-impact exercises and strength training can be very helpful, but it's important to avoid high-impact or heavy-strain activities without medical advice.

Does ankylosing spondylitis cause muscle twitching?

Muscle twitching isn’t a common symptom, but some people may experience it due to nerve involvement or medication side effects.

Is ankylosing spondylitis a disability?

It can be considered a disability if it severely affects mobility, daily activities, or the ability to work.

What blood test shows ankylosing spondylitis?

There’s no single test, but the HLA-B27 genetic marker and signs of inflammation like raised CRP or ESR levels can support a diagnosis.