Chronic back pain that persists for months and improves with movement could indicate ankylosing spondylitis (AS), a serious inflammatory condition. Often misdiagnosed as regular back pain, AS can lead to permanent spine damage if left untreated. Early recognition of symptoms is key to preventing complications and maintaining a high quality of life. Here’s what you need to know about the 10 early signs and symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis.
1. Persistent Lower Back Pain
Persistent lower back pain is a defining symptom of AS. Unlike mechanical back pain caused by poor posture or injuries, AS pain is inflammatory. It is typically worse in the morning and after periods of inactivity, improving only with movement. The pain often begins in the lower back or sacroiliac joints (the joints connecting your spine to your pelvis) and gradually worsens over time.
2. Morning Stiffness
Morning stiffness lasting over 30 to 60 minutes is another hallmark of AS. This stiffness can make it difficult to move, but it gradually improves with physical activity. In contrast, typical muscle soreness tends to ease up within a few minutes after waking. For individuals with AS, this stiffness can progress from being occasional to a daily struggle.
3. Hip and Buttock Pain
Inflammation in the sacroiliac joints often leads to pain radiating to the hips and buttocks. This type of pain is deep and persistent, sometimes switching sides. It is commonly mistaken for conditions like sciatica or hip bursitis, which can delay proper diagnosis.
4. Nighttime Back Pain
Pain from AS doesn’t improve with rest—in fact, it often gets worse at night, disrupting sleep. Many people wake up in the middle of the night with the need to move around to alleviate the discomfort. This symptom distinguishes AS from mechanical back pain, which typically improves with rest.
5. Pain Relief with Movement
One of the unique features of AS is that physical activity tends to alleviate pain, whereas rest makes it worse. Patients often feel significant relief later in the day after engaging in exercise or stretching. This is the opposite of conditions like muscle strains or herniated discs, where rest typically helps.
6. Eye Inflammation (Uveitis)
Ankylosing spondylitis isn’t limited to the spine—it can also affect other parts of the body, including the eyes. Uveitis, or eye inflammation, is a common associated condition. Symptoms include redness, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light. If untreated, uveitis can lead to vision problems, making it a critical warning sign for those with chronic back pain.
7. Reduced Chest Expansion
AS can cause inflammation in the joints between the ribs and spine, limiting chest expansion. This leads to tightness and difficulty taking deep breaths. If you experience shortness of breath that isn’t linked to lung problems, rib stiffness from AS may be the cause.
8. Heel Pain and Achilles Tendonitis
Chronic inflammation from AS doesn’t only affect the spine; it can also involve tendons and ligaments. Many patients experience persistent heel pain or Achilles tendon inflammation. These symptoms may be accompanied by plantar fasciitis, causing pain in the bottom of the foot, which is often mistaken for unrelated issues.
9. Fatigue and Malaise
The chronic inflammation caused by AS keeps your immune system in overdrive, which can lead to constant fatigue. Many patients feel exhausted even after a full night’s sleep and report experiencing brain fog and difficulty concentrating. These systemic symptoms are a reminder that AS is an autoimmune condition affecting more than just the joints.
10. Family History and Genetic Factors
Genetics play a significant role in AS. If you have a parent or sibling with the condition, your chances of developing it are higher. The HLA-B27 gene is present in about 80 to 90 percent of AS patients. However, not everyone with the gene will develop the disease, making early symptom recognition even more essential.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Ankylosing spondylitis is more than just back pain—it’s a progressive autoimmune condition that can lead to spinal fusion and other complications. Early recognition and treatment can prevent long-term damage, improve mobility, and reduce pain.
If you’ve been experiencing chronic back pain, stiffness, or any of these warning signs, consult a specialist. At Chicago Arthritis and Regenerative Medicine, we’re here to help you take control of your health with cutting-edge, non-surgical treatments.
Take the First Step
Don’t ignore persistent back pain. Catching AS early can make all the difference. Watch our video for a deeper dive into the symptoms, and visit ChicagoArthritis.com to schedule a consultation.
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