Which specialist treats ankylosing spondylitis?

A rheumatologist assesses inflammatory back or joint symptoms, reviews the pattern over time, and coordinates medication and monitoring. Ankylosing spondylitis can affect the spine, sacroiliac joints, hips, and other areas, so the assessment is broader than a single painful joint.

A physiotherapist creates an individual programme for spinal movement, posture, breathing mechanics, strength, and fitness. Exercise therapy and hydrotherapy may make movement easier when stiffness is limiting. Other clinicians may be involved if the eyes, skin, bowel, or hips are affected.

Ask your primary clinician for referral to a rheumatologist if you have persistent inflammatory-type stiffness, particularly morning stiffness that improves with movement or recurring symptoms without a clear injury. Keep a record of stiffness, pain, sleep disruption, eye symptoms, bowel changes, and how activity affects you. Continue only exercises that have been assessed as suitable.

Arrange timely review for worsening spinal stiffness, reduced range of motion, new hip pain, or difficulty with ordinary activities. Seek urgent care for a painful red light-sensitive eye, sudden weakness or numbness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or severe back pain after an injury.

Ask whether your symptoms fit ankylosing spondylitis or another cause, which tests are needed, and how inflammation will be monitored. Discuss anti-inflammatory medication, exercise therapy, posture, work adaptations, and flare planning. Ask which symptoms should prompt an eye, gastroenterology, or other referral.