This article discusses the rheumatologist’s role in treating ankylosing spondylitis—why seeing a specialist is important, how to prepare and what to expect during your first appointment, and how to find a healthcare provider.
Why See a Specialist?
Ankylosing spondylitis is a complex condition to recognize and treat, and a correct diagnosis can take many years. This condition typically starts to cause problems in adolescence or early adulthood, with initial symptoms of back pain and stiffness.
It can take a while for a person to realize that their symptoms aren’t going away. In addition, the damage caused by this condition often doesn’t show up on X-rays until it has progressed to later stages.
Seeing a specialist for your AS can ensure you get the proper treatment for the best outcome. Primary healthcare providers are trained to recognize a wide variety of health conditions—their knowledge is broad. Specialists focus on specific conditions or parts of the body and have a deeper understanding of that area.
Seeing a rheumatologist for your AS in earlier stages of the condition can help prevent permanent joint damage.
How to Prepare for Your Visit
When preparing for your rheumatology appointment, make sure your specialist has access to your medical records, including any blood tests or imaging, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or X-rays, or bring this information with you. In addition, you should bring a list of current medications (names of the drugs and the dosage) and any information about past treatments for your condition.
Other important information to bring to your appointment includes your family medical history and a list of previous surgeries or other medical conditions you have.
Bring a list of questions you’d like to ask the rheumatologist or use this doctor discussion guide.
What to Expect
At your first rheumatology appointment, your healthcare provider will ask questions about your symptoms, such as what makes your pain better or worse. They will review your medical history and your family’s medical history, as ankylosing spondylitis can run in families. The specialist will want to know what treatments you’ve tried for your condition and whether or not they have helped your symptoms.
A physical exam will be performed, including assessing your range of motion. Additional tests might be performed, such as an X-ray or blood work.
At the end of your session, the specialist will present a treatment plan and discuss next steps, including additional tests that may be required or medications that will be prescribed.
You might also be referred to other healthcare providers, such as a physical therapist, to help address your joint pain, stiffness, and functional limitations.
How to Find a Qualified Specialist
Talk to your primary healthcare provider for recommendations on finding a rheumatologist. Oftentimes, if you see a specialist in the same healthcare system, they will have full access to your medical records and test results electronically.
You can also find a rheumatologist through the American College of Rheumatology.
Summary
Ankylosing spondylitis is an inflammatory arthritis that causes progressive pain and joint stiffness. A rheumatologist is a specialist who treats and diagnoses conditions such as AS. Your first appointment will include a review of your medical history, symptoms, previous treatments, medications, and results of imaging tests and blood work. Your rheumatologist might order additional tests or make referrals to other healthcare providers as part of your treatment plan.
A Word From Verywell
There is no cure for ankylosing spondylitis, but a rheumatologist can help you manage your symptoms to improve your quality of life. Follow your specialist’s instructions and take your medications as prescribed for the best outcome. In some cases, treatment can help prevent permanent joint damage from occurring.
