Looking for ankylosing spondylitis treatment in Connecticut? PACT Rheumatology provides specialized care for patients with spine or back inflammation, stiffness, and pain related to ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). Our rheumatology team offers diagnostic evaluations, biologic therapy, and long-term treatment designed to reduce symptoms and help preserve mobility.
Request an appointment to schedule a consultation with a PACT rheumatology specialist.
Accepting New Patients | Hamden, Guilford, and Orange, CT
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory arthritis primarily affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints. It causes persistent back pain, stiffness, and may lead to fusion of the vertebrae over time.
“Ankylosing spondylitis” belongs to a broader group of conditions known as axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). This group includes both radiographic AS and non-radiographic forms that may show inflammation before visible changes appear on X-rays.
Is ankylosing spondylitis an autoimmune disease?
Yes. AS is an immune-mediated inflammatory disease related to overactivity of the immune system. Unlike classic autoimmune disorders, it is strongly linked to the HLA-B27 genetic marker.
The exact cause of ankylosing spondylitis is not fully known. Research points to a mix of genetic risk, immune system activity, and possible environmental triggers.
Ankylosing spondylitis differs from typical back strain or injury-related pain. Symptoms may include:
If you experience arthritis-like back pain that does not improve with rest, a rheumatology evaluation can help identify the cause.
Although both are forms of inflammatory arthritis, AS and RA differ in their pattern and cause.
Both conditions may be treated with advanced medications, but the best treatment depends on the diagnosis, symptoms, and areas affected.
Our diagnosis begins with a careful review of your symptom history, including when your pain started, how it feels, and whether it improves with movement. We also perform a physical exam, which may include modified Schober testing and lateral flexion assessment to check spinal mobility and signs of inflammatory back pain.
We use targeted bloodwork to look for clues that support an AS diagnosis. Testing may include HLA-B27, ESR, and CRP to identify genetic risk factors and measure inflammation in the body.
Ankylosing spondylitis is frequently diagnosed years after symptoms begin. Our approach prioritizes early detection to begin treatment sooner.
We recommend personalized treatment plans based on each patient’s symptoms, inflammation levels, imaging findings, and response to treatment. Options may include:
Our rheumatologists provide ongoing monitoring and medication adjustments to help you stay ahead of inflammation and protect long-term mobility.
Biologic therapy can be an effective treatment option for moderate-to-severe AS. We develop care plans using TNF inhibitors, IL-17 inhibitors, and other advanced therapies when clinically appropriate.
We review symptoms, physical exam findings, lab results, X-rays, and MRI scans to support an accurate diagnosis and identify earlier or non-radiographic disease.
We help patients across Connecticut connect with ankylosing spondylitis specialists at our Hamden, Guilford, and Orange locations.
Meet with a PACT Rheumatology specialist to discuss your back pain or ankylosing spondylitis symptoms. New patients are welcome at our Hamden, Guilford, and Orange locations.
Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory arthritis that mainly affects the spine and sacroiliac joints. It can cause back pain, stiffness, reduced flexibility, and, in some cases, fusion of parts of the spine over time.
The exact cause is not fully known. Genetics, immune system activity, and environmental triggers may all contribute. HLA-B27 is the strongest known genetic risk factor, but many people with this gene never develop AS.
Ankylosing spondylitis is an immune-mediated inflammatory disease. It is closely associated with HLA-B27 and abnormal immune activity that causes inflammation in the spine, sacroiliac joints, and sometimes other areas.
Ankylosing spondylitis mainly affects the spine and sacroiliac joints. Rheumatoid arthritis more commonly affects smaller joints, such as the hands and wrists. AS is linked with HLA-B27, while RA is linked with rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP antibodies.
Axial spondyloarthritis is the broader category. Ankylosing spondylitis is a form of axial spondyloarthritis where structural changes can usually be seen on X-rays. Non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis may show inflammation on MRI before X-ray changes appear.
There is no known cure for ankylosing spondylitis, but treatment can help reduce inflammation, improve stiffness, protect mobility, and support long-term quality of life.
Treatment depends on symptoms and disease activity. Options may include NSAIDs, physical therapy, biologic therapy such as TNF inhibitors or IL-17 inhibitors, JAK inhibitors for select patients, and regular monitoring with a rheumatologist.
PACT, LLC & PACT MSO, LLC
322 East Main Street, Suite 1B
Branford, CT 06405
PACT, LLC & PACT MSO, LLC
322 East Main Street, Suite 1B
Branford, CT 06405
