Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a type of chronic, inflammatory arthritis that commonly affects the spine (most notably in the sacroiliac joints that connect the base of your spine to your pelvis). As with most inflammatory conditions, AS can progress, causing inflammation in the joints and tissues of the spine, which lead to back pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility. In more severe cases, AS can lead to spinal fusion (new bone fuses to the spine) that results in a rigid spine that has difficulty bending.

The symptoms caused by AS are complex and non-specific, making it harder to diagnose. For an ankylosing spondylitis specialist, Brisbane residents can turn to Rheumatology.com.au, a team of Rheumatologists with years of combined experience in treating AS and associated rheumatic diseases.

What is ankylosing spondylitis (AS)?

Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of spondyloarthropathy, a chronic auto-immune disease that mainly affects the spine. Severe cases can result in the formation of extra bone which fuses with the spine, inhibiting movement. Sufferers of AS would typically experience debilitating inflammatory back pain, and possibly develop pain and stiffness in other parts of the body such as the:

  • Hips
  • Ribs
  • Knees
  • Shoulders
  • Ankles

What are the symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis?

The symptoms of AS are often confused with the symptoms of other common back problems. In some people, the condition may affect other areas of the body ranging from the neck to the body, and in rare cases, symptoms can be associated with damage to the organs. With that being said, the symptoms vary amongst individuals. The most common symptoms of AS are:

  • Pain and stiffness in the lower back.
  • Morning stiffness (morning stiffness often relates to all possible affected joints).
  • Pain in the buttocks, thighs, or legs.
  • Pain in the neck, shoulders and upper extremities which worsens during prolonged inactivity.
  • Pain in the heel or arches of the foot.
  • Swollen fingers around the joints.
  • Tightness and chest pain.
  • Inflammation of the eyes.

Due to the complexity of the symptoms of AS, and their similarities between other rheumatic conditions, diagnosis requires the knowledge and expertise of a qualified Rheumatologist. Our team specialises in a variety of rheumatic conditions, and so work together to diagnose you appropriately and devise a treatment plan tailored to your individual symptoms.

Ankylosing Spondylitis Specialist - Brisbane

Ankylosing spondylitis can often be confused with other rheumatic conditions. Thorough history taking is necessary to ensure an accurate diagnosis.

What causes AS?

AS is an autoimmune disease, meaning that its main causes are thought to be related to genetic and environmental factors. The exact cause, however, is yet to be determined due to the complex nature of the condition. To date, studies have suggested that infection, family history, and endocrine abnormalities could all be contributing factors to causing the disease.

How is AS diagnosed?

Many people who are in the early stages of AS think they have a common back pain problem and disregard the need to see a specialist.

Making a diagnosis for a rare and complex disease such as AS is challenging and requires the input of a Rheumatologist.  If your doctor suspects AS, they should refer you to us, as an early diagnosis is essential to establish an appropriate treatment plan.

To confirm a diagnosis, our Rheumatologists will take an extensive family and medical history, perform a physical examination, and carry out a number of blood tests to confirm the presence of any associated markers.

The physical examination will be carried out to assess the function of your ligaments (the tissues that connect bones together) and establish your point of pain. Blood tests are used to determine any underlying infection or inflammatory condition, and test for markers associated with other rheumatic conditions.

Can ankylosing spondylitis be cured in Australia?

Unfortunately, there is yet to be a cure discovered for AS. The condition still remains to have a relatively unknown etiology. Instead, people in Australia and all around the world can benefit from an early diagnosis to establish the right treatment plan that enables them to have a decent quality of life.

Many charities and support groups are available to help you connect with patients and families going through AS which can provide you with more information on services and effective treatments.

Ankylosing Spondylitis Specialist

Medical imaging can be used to determine the structure of your spine and identify any other bony abnormalities.

What treatments are there for AS?

The goal of the treatment of AS is to rid patients of long-lasting pain and improve their quality of life. This involves easing the symptoms relating to stiffness, pain, and function, and reducing the risk of complications and the development of associated conditions. Treatments for the symptoms of AS have improved dramatically. Each treatment has its own benefits, and so is tailored to each individual based on their presentations.

Oral treatment for pain associated with AS includes:

  • Pain relievers - for some, over the counter medications are extremely helpful, however, in most cases, prescription painkillers are needed to combat chronic pain.
  • Corticosteroid medicines or injections - prescribed to reduce inflammation.
  • Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDS) - These drugs work to reduce the inflammatory symptoms caused by autoimmune diseases. These drugs must be prescribed by a specialist.
  • Biological treatments.

Our team will work with you to recommend various physiotherapy exercises to keep your spine flexible, as well as give you daily activities to follow. The pain improves when performing regular exercise, as this will help reduce the frequency of stiffness, especially in the mornings.

With the right treatment, people with AS can lead normal and healthy lives. Contact us at your soonest convenience to discuss your treatment options.

arthritis specialist brisbane

Our Rheumatologists will work with you, allowing you to understand why you are experiencing symptoms and discuss in detail how we will alleviate your pain and discomfort.

How can we help

Our team of Rheumatologists here at Rheumatology.com.au specialise in a variety of niches within their field. By working together and using cutting-edge diagnostic tools, we are able to diagnose the most complex rheumatic symptoms and tailor treatment plans suited to your needs.

Our team will guide you through the early stages of your disease, monitor you throughout, and offer you many effective treatments until your pain improves. So, whether you are suffering from ongoing back pain, or can’t get an accurate diagnosis of your symptoms, you can turn to us for a complete and comprehensive diagnosis and treatment.

Our Ankylosing
Spondylitis Doctors

Our Rheumatologists are compassionate, caring, and committed to providing you with
treatment plans tailored to your individual needs. Meet our expert team below.

ArthritisCARE Rheumatologists
Dr Peter Landsberg

MBBS (Hons), DipRACOG, FRACGP, FRACP

Peter founded rheumatology.com.au in 2016. He is a specialist Rheumatologist with a keen interest in treating inflammatory arthritis and connective tissue disorders. His earlier years spent as a General Practitioner allow him to offer a uniquely holistic approach to patient care. He also has a strong commitment to being involved in training upcoming Rheumatologists.

Dr Clare Owens

MBBS, BSc, FRACP

Clare has a passion for research. She completed her rheumatology training in Queensland and was awarded the prestigious Arthritis Australia International Research Grant, which allowed her to undertake research at the University of Leeds in the UK, a recognised European Rheumatology Centre of Excellence. Her specific areas of interest include osteoarthritis, soft tissue rheumatism, gout and connective tissue diseases such as lupus.

Dr Sergei Grosman

MBBS, BSc, FRACP

Sergei completed advanced training in General and Acute Care Medicine in 2018, after which he pursued his strong interest in Rheumatology. He spent his training years in hospitals in Sydney, Brisbane and across Queensland. Sergei has a keen interest in all aspects of rheumatology and works closely with his patients to provide an individualised approach to care.

Dr Louise McCormack

MBBS (Hons), BSc, FRACP

Louise holds fellowships from the Royal Australasian College of Physicians in both General Medicine and Rheumatology and has been expertly practising as a Rheumatologist for over 12 years. In addition to her role at rheumatology.com.au, she provides her consultant specialist expertise to the Princess Alexandra Hospital and QEII Hospital Rheumatology Clinics in Brisbane.

Dr Maryam Zia

MBBS, MD, FRACP

Maryam specialised in 2019 after having completed her initial training at the University of Punjab in Pakistan. She completed her advanced training at the Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane and at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital. She is interested in all aspects of inflammatory autoimmune diseases.

Dr Joseph O'Callaghan

MBBS, BSc, FRACP

Dr Joseph O'Callaghan is a consultant in adult general rheumatology. He is a visiting Rheumatologist at the Mater Adult Hospital. He undertook his rheumatology training in Brisbane, Adelaide and Sydney and in Edmonton, Canada. He completed an MD on the anti-inflammatory effects of methotrexate while a Spurway Fellow in Rheumatology at the Royal North Shore Hospital. Dr O'Callaghan has an interest in all aspects of rheumatology care.

FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any further questions regarding the causes or therapies for AS, then turn to the section below.

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