1. Take the Ankylosing Spondylitis Quiz
2. Myths and Facts About Back Pain

Medical Author:

Wilfred CG Peh, MD, MBBS, FRCP(Edin), FRCP(Glasg), FRCR, MHSM

Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

View Full Profile

Once a definitive diagnosis is established, a detailed explanation of the disease, including its implications, should be provided to the patient. Regular lifelong exercises comprise the mainstay of the treatment program. Adequate analgesics (painkillers) consisting of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) or naproxen (Aleve), should be administered under supervision to control pain and stiffness and to allow the patient to continue exercising through pain. Other drugs, such as the tumor necrosis factor alpha antagonist group may also be used, as well as methotrexate and sulfasalazine. For more information, see Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis Medications. Severe hip involvement may require hip replacement surgery. Spinal surgery may be required to treat complications of long-standing spinal disease.

Must Read Articles Related to Ankylosing Spondylitis, Radiologic Perspective

Ankylosing Spondylitis, Neurologic Perspective Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a long-term disease that affects the joints near the center of the body, especially the spine and sacroiliac joints. Symptoms inc...learn more >>

Ankylosing Spondylitis, Ophthalmologic Perspective Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a type of progressive arthritis that leads to chronic inflammation of the spine and the area where the spine joins the pelvis (sa...learn more >>

Ankylosing Spondylitis, Orthopedic Perspective Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the spine and the connection of the spine to the pelvis (sacroiliac joints). Sacroiliac joint ...learn more >>

See the Entire Ankylosing Spondylitis, Radiologic Perspective Topic Guide »