Baricitinib emerges as a promising oral JAK inhibitor for ankylosing spondylitis, offering new efficacy data, safety insights, and a clear place alongside existing biologics.
Ankylosing Spondylitis – What You Need to Know
If you’ve heard the term ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and wonder what it really means, you’re in the right spot. It’s an inflammatory arthritis that mainly hits the spine and the places where tendons attach to bone. The result? Stiff, painful back that can make simple moves feel like a workout.
Most people notice AS in their late teens or early twenties, and it’s more common in men. That doesn’t mean women are immune – they just tend to get diagnosed later. The key sign is chronic lower back pain that improves with activity and worsens after rest.
Typical Symptoms to Watch For
Besides the classic back ache, you might feel:
- Morning stiffness lasting over an hour
- Pain in the hips, shoulders, or heels (especially the Achilles area)
- Reduced flexibility in the spine, making it hard to bend forward
- Fatigue that’s not fixed by sleep
If any of these ring a bell, a doctor can run a simple physical exam and order an X‑ray or MRI to check for inflammation.
Treatment Options That Really Help
There’s no cure, but several approaches can keep symptoms under control. First‑line treatment usually involves NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen to cut pain and swelling. If those aren’t enough, doctors may prescribe biologic drugs such as TNF inhibitors (e.g., etanercept, adalimumab) that target the immune response.
Physical therapy is a must‑do. A trained therapist will guide you through stretching and strengthening exercises that keep the spine mobile and reduce stiffness. Regular activity – even a daily walk – can make a big difference.
Some people also benefit from lifestyle tweaks: quit smoking, maintain a healthy weight, and practice good posture. These choices can slow the progression of spinal fusion, which is the worst‑case scenario where vertebrae lock together.
Living with AS isn’t just about meds. Join an online community, talk to a counselor, or try mindfulness techniques to handle the emotional side of chronic pain.
Below you’ll find a list of recent articles that dive deeper into specific drugs, coping strategies, and the latest research on ankylosing spondylitis. Click any title to read the full post and get practical tips you can start using right away.
Remember, early diagnosis and consistent treatment are the best ways to keep AS from taking over your life. Stay informed, stay active, and don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider about the options that fit you best.