Axial Spondyloarthritis Care in Collegeville, PA
Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), previously commonly known as ankylosing spondylitis, is an inflammatory arthritis of the spine and pelvis. Early diagnosis and treatment help keep you moving comfortably.
What is axial spondyloarthritis?
Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is an inflammatory arthritis that mainly affects the spine and the sacroiliac joints, where the spine meets the pelvis. Its previous common name was ankylosing spondylitis, a term still used for the form that shows changes on X-rays. It usually begins in young adulthood. Over time, ongoing inflammation can reduce spinal flexibility, but many people do well with treatment.
Common symptoms
- Lower back and buttock pain that develops gradually and lasts longer than three months
- Stiffness that is worse in the morning or after rest and improves with movement
- Back pain that wakes you in the second half of the night
- Heel pain or pain where tendons attach to bone
- A red, painful eye (uveitis), which needs prompt attention
- Fatigue
How axial spondyloarthritis is diagnosed
Diagnosis combines your history, an examination of spine and hip movement, blood tests that check for inflammation, and imaging of the sacroiliac joints and spine. MRI can show inflammation earlier than X-rays. The HLA-B27 gene test can support the diagnosis but is not required.
Treatment
Treatment aims to relieve pain and stiffness and protect spinal mobility. It often includes regular exercise and physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), and, when needed, biologic medications that target specific inflammatory pathways such as TNF or IL-17. Targeted joint injections can help specific joints, and avoiding smoking improves outcomes.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Shady Abdelbaki, MD · Last reviewed October 25, 2026
Frequently asked questions about axial spondyloarthritis
Is axial spondyloarthritis the same as ankylosing spondylitis?
Ankylosing spondylitis was the earlier, more commonly used name. Doctors now use axial spondyloarthritis as the broader term. It includes people whose X-rays are still normal as well as those with visible changes in the spine or sacroiliac joints. The name ankylosing spondylitis is still sometimes used for the form with visible X-ray changes.
Is axial spondyloarthritis the same as ordinary back pain?
No. Ordinary back pain often improves with rest, while the pain of axial spondyloarthritis tends to improve with activity and is worse after rest or at night.
Does everyone with axial spondyloarthritis have the HLA-B27 gene?
Many but not all people with axial spondyloarthritis carry HLA-B27, and many people who carry it never develop the disease. The test is one piece of the evaluation.
Can exercise help?
Yes. Regular stretching, posture work, and aerobic activity are a core part of treatment and help preserve flexibility.
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