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Ankylosing Spondylitis Treatment in Manhasset, NY

Serving Nassau County & Queens

What Is Ankylosing Spondylitis?

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory form of arthritis that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints (where the spine meets the pelvis).

It is part of a group of conditions known as spondyloarthritis and most commonly begins in young adults, often before age 45.

Without proper treatment, AS can lead to chronic pain, stiffness, and reduced spinal mobility. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing long-term complications.

Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis

Common symptoms include:

  • Chronic lower back pain lasting more than 3 months
  • Morning stiffness that improves with movement
  • Pain that worsens with rest
  • Neck stiffness
  • Fatigue
  • Pain in hips or shoulders
  • Inflammation of the eyes (uveitis)
  • Heel pain or tendon inflammation

Inflammatory back pain differs from mechanical back pain and should be evaluated by a rheumatologist.

How Is AS Diagnosed?

Diagnosis may include:

  • Detailed history and physical examination
  • Blood tests for inflammation
  • HLA-B27 testing in selected patients
  • X-rays or MRI of the sacroiliac joints
  • Evaluation for related inflammatory conditions

Early imaging can detect inflammation before permanent changes occur.

Treatment for Ankylosing Spondylitis

Treatment aims to reduce inflammation, preserve mobility, and prevent progression.

Options may include:

  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Biologic therapies targeting specific inflammatory pathways
  • Physical therapy
  • Exercise programs to maintain flexibility
  • Ongoing monitoring and imaging when appropriate

Modern treatments have significantly improved long-term outcomes.

When Should You See a Rheumatologist?

You should seek evaluation if you:

  • Have chronic back pain beginning before age 45
  • Experience morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes
  • Have back pain that improves with movement
  • Have psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease, or recurrent eye inflammation with back pain

Early diagnosis can prevent long-term joint damage.

Comprehensive Spondyloarthritis Care

At Manhasset Rheumatology, we evaluate and manage ankylosing spondylitis for patients throughout Nassau County and Queens.

As a small, two-physician private practice, patients receive individualized, one-on-one care with continuity at every visit.

Both physicians are consultants at St. Francis Hospital and participate in clinical research and trials, allowing access to evolving biologic therapies when indicated.

Schedule an Appointment

If you are experiencing symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis, contact our office in Manhasset to schedule an evaluation.

📞 516-365-1700
📧 manhassetrheum@gmail.com

We proudly serve patients in Nassau County and Queens.