Which joints can ankylosing spondylitis affect?

The sacroiliac joints connect the base of the spine to the pelvis. Inflammation may then involve joints and ligament attachment areas higher in the back. The pattern differs between people and can change over time.

Sacroiliac inflammation can cause deep buttock or lower-back pain, sometimes alternating sides. Spinal involvement may bring prolonged morning stiffness and reduced flexibility. Inflammation where ribs meet the spine or breastbone can make deep breathing uncomfortable and reduce chest expansion.

Hip or shoulder disease can restrict large movements such as walking, dressing, or reaching overhead. Knees, ankles, and smaller limb joints may also become painful or swollen. Ankylosing spondylitis may additionally inflame entheses, the places where tendons and ligaments attach to bone, especially around the heel.

Record which areas hurt, how long stiffness lasts after waking, and whether movement improves or aggravates symptoms. Also note swelling, night pain, walking limits, and changes in chest comfort. This pattern helps the clinical team judge disease activity and distinguish inflammatory symptoms from a separate mechanical problem.

Regularly prescribed mobility, posture, breathing, and strengthening exercises can support function. Treatment may combine physiotherapy with medication chosen for the person's symptoms and medical history. During a flare, reduce aggravating loads without remaining completely still, then rebuild activity at a tolerable pace.

Arrange a review if a new joint becomes persistently swollen, pain or stiffness is disrupting sleep and daily activity, mobility is declining, or the current treatment no longer controls symptoms. A hot, very swollen joint with fever needs urgent assessment because infection must be considered.

Seek emergency care for new severe weakness, numbness around the groin, or loss of bladder or bowel control. These neurological warning signs require rapid evaluation regardless of their cause.

Ask which joints or attachment sites appear inflamed, how your range of motion will be monitored, and which exercises match the areas involved. It can also help to clarify how to adjust activity during a flare and what new symptoms should trigger an earlier appointment.