In recent years, advances have been made in the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis and related diseases. There is a lot that can be done to relieve the pain and stiffness of AS. Recent studies show that the new biologic medications (TNF-α inhibitors) can potentially slow or halt the disease progression in some people.
A common treatment regimen involves medication, exercise and possibly physical therapy, good posture practices, and other treatment options such as applying heat/cold to help relax muscles and reduce joint pain. In severe cases of AS, surgery may also be an option. Very often, a rheumatologist will outline a treatment plan, but other professionals may also be able to help.
The appropriate medication varies depending on symptoms, age, disease severity, and whether the patient is dealing with adult-onset AS or ankylosing spondylitis in children. Parents seeking juvenile ankylosing spondylitis treatment also follow similar principles, but with careful paediatric monitoring.
Your doctor may recommend one or more of the following medication categories:
NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are still the cornerstone of treatment and the first stage of medication in treating the pain and stiffness associated with AS. However, NSAIDs can cause significant side effects, in particular, damage to the gastrointestinal tract.
If NSAIDs do not provide enough relief, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs may be added. These include:
DMARDs are especially useful in individuals who also require psoriatic arthritis treatment, reactive arthritis treatment, or undifferentiated spondyloarthropathy treatment, since these conditions share overlapping inflammatory pathways. It is recommended to speak with a healthcare professional before starting any medication.
Biologic medications represent the most impactful advancement in AS care. TNF inhibitors for ankylosing spondylitis such as Enbrel, Remicade, and Humira, have proven highly effective for both spinal and peripheral joint inflammation. Many patients in the AS Patient Community India report significant improvements in mobility, pain levels, and overall quality of life after starting biologics.
Exercise is one of the most essential components of any long-term management plan. Regular movement supports posture, flexibility, deep breathing capacity and helps reduce stiffness.
Working with a trained physiotherapist particularly one familiar with spondyloarthritis can ensure exercises are performed safely and effectively.
Proper posture helps prevent complications such as spinal stiffness, kyphosis (forward curvature), and long-term mobility loss. Patients are encouraged to incorporate posture awareness into daily tasks, from sitting at a desk to sleeping positions.
Practicing good posture techniques will also help avoid some of the complications of spondylitis including stiffness and flexion deformities / kyphosis (downward curvature) of the spine.
Thermal therapies are simple yet powerful tools for symptom management:
These tools are especially helpful during flare-ups or after periods of prolonged inactivity.
In advanced or severe AS cases, surgery may be considered. Common procedures include:
Spinal corrective procedures are complex and carry higher risks, so they are usually reserved for select cases after thorough evaluation.
Supportive therapies can greatly improve day-to-day comfort:
Many individuals also find that community resources—like the AS Patient Community India—provide emotional support, treatment insights, and help navigating lifestyle adjustments.
With modern therapies, targeted exercise, proactive lifestyle changes, and personalized medical guidance, people with ankylosing spondylitis can manage symptoms effectively and maintain a strong quality of life. Whether you’re looking for detailed ankylosing spondylitis treatment information, seeking guidance for juvenile ankylosing spondylitis treatment, or exploring options for related conditions such as reactive arthritis treatment or psoriatic arthritis treatment, today’s treatment landscape offers more hope and clarity than ever before.
