With the advancements in science, Ankylosing Spondylitis is no more considered an untreatable disease. Although there is no permanent cure for Ankylosing Spondylitis, but with proper treatment, spinal deformities and other complications can be prevented or delayed.
The ultimate objective of treatment for ankylosing spondylitis is not only reduction of pain and stiffness but protecting patients from long-term complications, deformity and making them to lead a normal life as much as possible.
Following a treatment under the care of a Rheumatologist is the best way to get relieve from symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis. There are several treatment modalities for treatment. If non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs do not help, your doctor may recommend starting biological drugs, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers or interleukin 17 inhibitors. DMARDS like sulfasalazine and Methotrexate also help to some extent in many patients.
Sulfasalazine is especially helpful inpatient with peripheral arthritis( knee, ankle joints, etc).
A positive outlook, regular exercises, and medicines will make the life of a person having Ankylosing Spondylitis almost near to a normal person.
Dr. Ashish K Badika has 3 years of advanced training in Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology including 2 years Post Doctoral.
He has extensive exposure to Systemic Autoimmune Disorder (Rheumatoid arthritis, Psoriatic arthritis, Seronegative spondyloarthritis, Systemic lupus erythematosus, Scleroderma, Gout, Myositis, Sjogren’s Syndrome, Vasculitic conditions, and Paediatric rheumatology disorders).