Like many autoimmune diseases, axial spondyloarthritis can progress over time. This is an inflammatory arthritis of the spine that might initially just cause lower back pain and stiffness. Over time, however, this may lead to joint damage and deformities in the spine and nearby bones. The progression may also lead to ankylosing spondylitis.
Nilasha Ghosh, MD, MS, is a board-certified Rheumatologist with expertise in autoimmune diseases, inflammatory arthritis, and musculoskeletal medicine.
References
MedlinePlus. (2021). Ankylosing spondylitis.
Spondylitis Association of America. (n.d.). Overview of ankylosing spondylitis.
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Written by:
Lauren Smith, MALauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.
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Mera Goodman, MD, FAAPMera Goodman, MD, FAAP, is a board-certified pediatrician. Prior to practicing medicine, she worked as a management consultant.
