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What Is Ankylosing Spondylitis?

Ankylosing Spondylitis is a form of inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints, where the spine meets the pelvis. Over time, inflammation can lead to pain, stiffness and reduced spinal mobility. In some cases, other joints such as the hips, shoulders and ribs may also be affected. Early diagnosis and ongoing management can play an important role in maintaining mobility, function and quality of life.

Common Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis

Symptoms vary between individuals but may include:

✔ Lower back pain

✔ Sacroiliac joint pain

✔ Morning stiffness

✔ Pain that improves with movement and exercise

✔ Reduced spinal mobility

✔ Hip pain and stiffness

✔ Fatigue

✔ Difficulty standing upright

✔ Reduced chest expansion during breathing

✔ Reduced ability to participate in work, exercise and recreational activities

Common Causes of Ankylosing Spondylitis

The exact cause of Ankylosing Spondylitis is not fully understood, however several factors may contribute, including:

✔ Genetic factors, including HLA-B27

✔ Autoimmune and inflammatory processes

✔ Family history of Ankylosing Spondylitis

✔ Inflammation affecting the sacroiliac joints

✔ Progressive changes affecting the spine

While the condition cannot currently be cured, appropriate medical management and rehabilitation may help improve symptoms and maintain function.

Assessment and Diagnosis

Your clinician will discuss your symptoms, medical history, diagnosis, daily activities, work demands and rehabilitation goals. The assessment may include spinal mobility testing, posture assessment, strength testing, flexibility assessment, functional assessment and review of imaging or specialist reports where available. The aim is to understand how the condition is affecting your movement and function and develop an appropriate rehabilitation plan.

How Physiotherapy May Help

Physiotherapy may assist with maintaining mobility, improving movement patterns and supporting long-term function. Treatment may include education, posture management, mobility exercises, stretching programs, hands-on treatment where appropriate and guidance on managing symptoms during daily activities. Physiotherapy aims to help maintain spinal flexibility, improve physical function and support participation in work and recreational activities.

Related Service: Physiotherapy

How Exercise Physiology May Help

Exercise Physiology is often a key component of Ankylosing Spondylitis management. Exercise physiologists develop individualised exercise programs designed to improve strength, mobility, endurance, posture and overall physical function. Regular exercise may help reduce stiffness, maintain mobility and improve confidence with movement. Programs are tailored to your symptoms, goals and physical capacity and progressed appropriately over time.

Related Service: Exercise Physiology

Hydrotherapy for Ankylosing Spondylitis

Hydrotherapy may be particularly beneficial for people living with Ankylosing Spondylitis. The buoyancy of the water can reduce loading through painful joints while allowing movement and exercise in a supportive environment. The warmth of the water may also help reduce stiffness and improve comfort during exercise. Hydrotherapy is often combined with physiotherapy and exercise physiology as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation program.

Related Service: Hydrotherapy

Ankylosing Spondylitis Rehabilitation Programs

Some people with Ankylosing Spondylitis may benefit from a structured rehabilitation program focused on maintaining mobility, improving strength, supporting posture and preserving independence. Rehabilitation may also help improve work capacity, activity tolerance and long-term self-management strategies.

Related Service: Rehabilitation Programs

When Should You Seek Medical Advice?

People with Ankylosing Spondylitis should maintain regular contact with their medical team. You should seek medical advice if symptoms are worsening, new joints become affected, significant fatigue develops, vision changes occur, neurological symptoms develop or your condition is significantly impacting your daily activities. Your clinician may also recommend specialist review where appropriate.

Why Choose Illawarra Rehabilitation Clinic?

✔ Physiotherapy

✔ Exercise Physiology

✔ Hydrotherapy Pool

✔ Rehabilitation Gym

✔ Work Rehabilitation Services

✔ NDIS Services

✔ Individualised Rehabilitation Plans

✔ Convenient Warilla Location

At Illawarra Rehabilitation Clinic, we provide a multidisciplinary approach to rehabilitation from our purpose-built facility in Warilla. Our team works with people managing chronic conditions and improving their ability to work, exercise and stay active.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is exercise important for Ankylosing Spondylitis?

Yes. Regular exercise is considered one of the most important components of Ankylosing Spondylitis management and may help maintain mobility, posture and physical function.

Can physiotherapy help Ankylosing Spondylitis?

Physiotherapy may help improve movement, flexibility, posture and function while supporting long-term self-management.

Can hydrotherapy help Ankylosing Spondylitis?

Many people with Ankylosing Spondylitis find hydrotherapy beneficial because the warm water environment may reduce stiffness and make exercise more comfortable.

Will Ankylosing Spondylitis get worse over time?

The progression of Ankylosing Spondylitis varies between individuals. Early diagnosis, medical management and regular exercise may help maintain mobility and function.

Can Exercise Physiology help Ankylosing Spondylitis?

Exercise Physiology may assist with strength, mobility, endurance and long-term physical conditioning through an individualised and progressive exercise program.