When to Worry About Reduced Range of Motion With Ankylosing Spondylitis

Inflammation in the spine and joints can cause stiffness, particularly after rest. Over time, movement may become more restricted in the lower back, neck, hips, or chest. Compare your current ability with your usual baseline rather than forcing a joint to move further.

A gradual change should still be discussed if it affects dressing, walking, sleep, work, or posture. New pain in a different joint, marked fatigue, or a change in spinal flexibility can help your clinician judge whether the condition is active or whether another problem is present.

Arrange a review when stiffness is lasting longer, movement is steadily declining, or your usual plan no longer controls symptoms. Gentle range-of-motion work, posture changes, and activity broken into manageable periods may help, but exercises should be adapted to your symptoms. Keep a brief diary of morning stiffness, painful areas, function, and any new symptoms.

Seek urgent assessment for sudden severe spinal pain after a minor injury or fall, new limb weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or rapidly worsening numbness. A painful red eye with light sensitivity or blurred vision needs same-day eye assessment. New chest tightness or significant breathing difficulty requires emergency care.

Ask what level of movement change suggests active inflammation, which exercises suit your spine and hips, and whether treatment or physiotherapy needs adjustment. Ask how to distinguish a flare from an injury and when your next review should occur.