Conditions We Treat
Ankylosing Spondylitis Treatment in Manassas, VA
Ankylosing spondylitis treatment in Manassas, VA focuses on reducing inflammatory back pain and stiffness and keeping your spine flexible. Our rheumatologists diagnose axial spondyloarthritis and offer medication management, including biologic therapies and in-office infusions, along with bone health monitoring.
- Board-certified rheumatologists
- Most insurance plans accepted
- Mon to Fri, 8am to 5pm
Inflammatory back pain care
Biologic and infusion options
What Is Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a type of inflammatory arthritis that mainly affects the spine and the sacroiliac joints where the spine meets the pelvis. It belongs to a group called axial spondyloarthritis. Over time, inflammation can cause stiffness and, in some people, new bone growth that fuses parts of the spine.
Common Symptoms
- Low back or buttock pain that begins gradually, often before age 45
- Stiffness that is worse in the morning or after rest and improves with movement
- Pain that may wake you in the second half of the night
- Heel pain or pain where tendons attach to bone
- Fatigue
- Eye inflammation (uveitis) causing a red, painful eye and light sensitivity
Causes and Risk Factors
Genetics play a major role. Many people with AS carry the HLA-B27 gene, though most people with the gene never develop the disease. A family history of spondyloarthritis, psoriasis, or inflammatory bowel disease also increases risk.
How We Diagnose Ankylosing Spondylitis
Diagnosis is based on your symptom pattern, a physical exam of spinal motion, blood tests such as CRP and HLA-B27, and imaging of the sacroiliac joints with X-ray or MRI. Because chronic inflammation and some treatments can affect bone, we may also recommend bone density testing.
Treatment Options
- Daily stretching, posture exercises, and physical therapy
- Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
- Biologic therapies such as TNF or IL-17 inhibitors, some given through our infusion center
- Injections for inflamed peripheral joints or tendons
- Prompt eye care referral for uveitis
When to Seek Care
See a rheumatologist if you have back pain lasting more than three months that started before age 45, improves with activity, and worsens with rest. A sudden red, painful eye needs same-day eye care.
Next steps
Get evaluated in Manassas
Call (703) 361-3255 or request an appointment online. Our Manassas office is open Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.
Related pages
How We Help
Services Used to Evaluate and Treat Ankylosing Spondylitis
These in-office services may be part of your evaluation or treatment plan.
IV medications for rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, psoriatic arthritis, osteoporosis, and more.
DEXA scans that measure bone mineral density to screen for osteopenia and osteoporosis.
Corticosteroid, hyaluronic acid, and PRP joint injections as one part of a broader treatment plan.
Radiation-free, real-time imaging of joints, tendons, and soft tissue to look for inflammation.
Your Care Team
Rheumatology Clinicians Who Treat Ankylosing Spondylitis
Our board-certified rheumatologists and nurse practitioners care for patients with ankylosing spondylitis at our Manassas office.
Nurse practitioner
Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner
FAQs
Ankylosing Spondylitis Questions
Answers to common questions from patients in Manassas and across Northern Virginia.
Is ankylosing spondylitis the same as regular back pain?
No. Mechanical back pain usually improves with rest, while inflammatory back pain from AS tends to improve with movement and worsen with rest.
Does a positive HLA-B27 test mean I have AS?
No. Many people carry HLA-B27 without having AS. It is one piece of information your rheumatologist considers.
Can exercise help ankylosing spondylitis?
Yes. Regular stretching and exercise are essential parts of treatment and help maintain flexibility and posture.
Are biologic medications given by infusion?
Some are given by infusion and others by self-injection. Your clinician will discuss the option that fits your needs.
Related Conditions
Related Conditions We Treat
Many rheumatic conditions share symptoms or occur together. Learn about related conditions.
Psoriatic Arthritis
Joint inflammation linked to psoriasis
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Inflammatory joint pain, swelling, and stiffness
Osteoporosis & Osteopenia
Low bone density and fracture risk
Bursitis & Tendinitis
Soft tissue pain and inflammation
Request an Appointment
Schedule a Visit for Ankylosing Spondylitis
Request an appointment online or call (703) 361-3255 to be evaluated at our Manassas office.
