what are the treatment options available for non-radiographic spondyloarthritis?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have been dealing with ongoing back pain and stiffness for several months now, and my doctor mentioned that I might have non-radiographic spondyloarthritis. I am a bit confused because I thought spondyloarthritis was only diagnosed with X-rays, but my results do not show anything unusual. Can you explain what non-radiographic spondyloarthritis is and how it differs from other types? What treatments or lifestyle changes can help manage the pain and prevent the condition from getting worse?

Kindly help me.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

Ankylosing spondylitis, also known as axial spondyloarthritis, is an inflammatory disease that, over time, can cause some of the bones in the spine, called vertebrae, to fuse. This fusing makes the spine less flexible and can result in a hunched posture. If ribs are affected, it can be difficult to breathe deeply.

As ankylosing spondylitis worsens, new bone forms as part of the body's attempt to heal. The new bone gradually bridges the gaps between vertebrae and eventually fuses sections of vertebrae. Fused vertebrae can flatten the natural curves of the spine, which causes an inflexible, hunched posture. Axial spondyloarthritis has two types. When the condition is found on X-ray, it is called ankylosing spondylitis, also known as axial spondyloarthritis. When the condition cannot be seen on X-ray but is found based on symptoms, blood tests, and other imaging tests, it is called non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis.

Ankylosing spondylitis has no known specific cause, though genetic factors seem to be involved. In particular, people who have a gene called HLA-B27 are at a greatly increased risk of developing ankylosing spondylitis. However, only some people with the gene develop the condition. There is no cure for ankylosing spondylitis, but treatments can lessen symptoms and possibly slow the progression of the disease.

I hope I have answered your queries.

Feel free to ask further queries.

Thank you.