What are the symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis?

Pain and stiffness often involve the lower back, buttocks, or joints where tendons attach to bone. Rest may not ease the discomfort, and turning, bending, or standing upright can become harder. The spine may feel less flexible over time. Some people also develop pain or swelling in the hips, shoulders, knees, or other joints. Fatigue can accompany ongoing inflammation. Eye symptoms such as a painful red eye or sensitivity to light can occur and need prompt assessment. These features can overlap with other causes of back pain, so symptoms do not establish the diagnosis by themselves.

Keep gently active within your limits and avoid long periods in one position. A physiotherapist can tailor exercise therapy for spinal mobility, posture, breathing, and strength; hydrotherapy may make movement more comfortable for some people. A clinician may discuss anti-inflammatory medication or other treatment after reviewing your history, examination, and health risks. Track when stiffness occurs, what improves it, and whether other joints or the eyes are affected. This record can make an assessment more useful.

Arrange medical review for back or buttock pain with persistent morning stiffness, reduced movement, or symptoms that continue despite ordinary self-care. Seek urgent eye care for a painful red eye, light sensitivity, or blurred vision. Emergency assessment is needed for new leg weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the saddle area, or severe sudden back pain after an injury. Early assessment can separate inflammatory spinal symptoms from other causes.

Could my pattern of stiffness suggest an inflammatory condition? What examination or tests are appropriate? Which exercises are safe during a flare? Would physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, or medication suit my symptoms?