Ankylosing Spondylitis

A long-term inflammatory arthritis mainly affecting the spine, causing back pain and stiffness that improve with movement.

SpineAutoimmuneLast updated: 21 October 2026

Quick Summary

Primary Symptoms

Back pain and stiffness, worse in the morning and after rest, better with exercise, often starting before age 40.

Common Treatments

Regular exercise and physiotherapy, anti-inflammatory medicines and biological medicines if needed.

Risk Factors

Family history, the HLA-B27 gene and being male.

OverviewSymptomsCausesTreatmentFAQ

Overview

Ankylosing spondylitis causes inflammation where ligaments attach to bones, especially in the spine and pelvis. Over time some vertebrae can fuse.

Early diagnosis and regular exercise help keep the spine flexible.

Symptoms

Inflammatory back pain

Worse at night and in the morning.

Morning stiffness

Lasting more than 30 minutes.

Eye inflammation

Painful red eye (uveitis).

Heel and joint pain

Other joints may be affected.

Causes & Risk Factors

Biological Causes

An immune-related inflammation, strongly linked to the HLA-B27 gene.

Key Risk Factors

  • Genes HLA-B27 and family history.
  • Sex More common in men.
  • Age Usually starts in late teens to 30s.

Management & Treatment

01. Exercise

Daily stretching and posture exercises.

02. NSAIDs

Anti-inflammatory medicines.

03. Biologics

For persistent active disease.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does everyone with HLA-B27 get it?
No, most people with the gene never do.
Should I avoid exercise?
No, exercise is a key treatment.

Sources and further reading

Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.