If you have ankylosing spondylitis (AS), working with a rheumatologist can help you monitor your condition and better manage your symptoms.

Rheumatology is the study of rheumatic conditions. These are conditions that affect the joints and other parts of the body. As AS causes joint inflammation, a rheumatologist can help treat and monitor the condition.

Read on for seven reasons why visiting your rheumatologist is beneficial to you and your health if you have AS.

Rheumatologists are medical doctors with extensive training in musculoskeletal and inflammatory disorders, including all types of arthritis. AS is a type of arthritis.

Once board certified in rheumatology, U.S. rheumatologists must retake the exam every 10 years. They’re required to keep up with the latest research and treatment options through continuing education.

AS is a chronic condition that will require lifelong management. While you may have a primary care physician, it is crucial to have a rheumatologist oversee your AS treatment to ensure specialized care tailored to your needs.

The course of AS varies and can range from mild to severe, potentially causing damage to the spine and joints.

While there is no cure, treatment aims to alleviate symptoms and slow progression by managing inflammation.

Seeking guidance from a specialist well-versed in AS inflammation is crucial for managing the condition and monitoring potential complications.

Establishing a strong relationship with a rheumatologist allows for quick assistance during sudden symptom flare-ups, and they’ll have immediate access to your medical records.

AS primarily affects the spine, leading to lower back pain and stiffness. However, the inflammatory condition can also affect:

  • your rib cage
  • other joints, including those in your:
    • hips
    • shoulders
    • knees
    • feet
    • ribs
  • tendons and ligaments
  • your eyes
  • bladder function

Your rheumatologist will check if AS affects other parts of your body and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

With access to your medical history, your rheumatologist can take immediate action and refer you to appropriate specialists if needed.

Learn more about how AS can affect the body.

AS is a chronic condition, which means you’ll always have it. Even if your symptoms are mild or you have no significant complications, there’s a potential for disease progression and severe damage to joints.

A rheumatologist can help identify the warning signs of serious complications. They can also monitor your treatment plan and help prevent potentially disabling complications.

With careful monitoring, you can address early signs of complications and adjust your treatment accordingly.

Learn more about how AS progresses.

AS treatment is multifaceted and may evolve with your needs, including medications and lifestyle changes. Consulting a rheumatologist can enhance your quality of life and prevent future complications.

Rheumatologists offer:

  • pain and stiffness management
  • inflammation treatment to prevent joint damage
  • exercise guidance for improvement
  • posture recommendations
  • tips on choosing assistive devices
  • referrals to other specialists as needed
  • information on complementary therapies such as yoga, massage, and acupuncture

You may not need all of these services consistently, but having a rheumatologist will ensure they’re available if needed.

Learn more about treatments for AS.

Understanding what to avoid is just as important as knowing what to do. A rheumatologist can identify specific actions and lifestyle choices that may worsen your AS symptoms.

They might recommend you:

  • avoid smoking
  • limit certain foods to help maintain a moderate weight
  • avoid specific postures or sitting positions
  • skip exercises that cause pain or worsen symptoms

Because your AS presents differently than anyone else’s, a specialist needs to evaluate your specific condition and recommend personalized adjustments that may improve your symptoms.

Learn more about what can worsen AS.

Your healthcare needs will probably evolve over time. Your rheumatologist can refer you to specialists who offer additional care or address complications related to AS.

Other specialists who might be added to your healthcare team include:

  • physiatrist or physical therapist
  • ophthalmologist
  • gastroenterologist
  • neurosurgeon
  • registered dietitian
  • practitioners of complementary
    therapies

Consider your rheumatologist as your team leader or AS partner, guiding you through your healthcare journey with your consent.

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic condition that can cause mild to severe joint pain and other symptoms. A rheumatologist specializes in AS and other types of arthritis.

Partnering with an AS expert ensures you receive specialized care tailored to your needs. Your rheumatologist will track your symptoms, adjust your treatment plan as necessary, and monitor for potential complications.

Having a rheumatologist gives you a reliable point of contact if your condition worsens or new symptoms appear. When needed, they can coordinate your care with other specialists to address all aspects of your health.