General Spondyloarthritis FAQs

Spondyloarthritis (SpA) is a group of closely related inflammatory diseases that can affect the spine, joints, and other parts of the body. The different types share certain features but can vary in which areas they affect and how symptoms develop.

There are seven main types of spondyloarthritis: ankylosing spondylitis, non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis, enteropathic arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, reactive arthritis, undifferentiated spondyloarthritis, and juvenile spondyloarthritis.

Spondyloarthritis is generally considered an autoinflammatory disease rather than a traditional autoimmune disease. The immune system plays a major role in causing inflammation, but unlike many autoimmune diseases, SpA is not typically associated with autoantibodies that target the body’s own proteins.

The exact triggers of spondyloarthritis aren’t known, and they can vary from person to person. Genetics, including the HLA-B27 gene, may increase the risk, but other factors may also play a role, such as severe infections, smoking, alcohol use, environmental exposures, and changes in the gut microbiome.

Though spondylitis and spondylosis are both conditions that affect the spine, they do so differently. Spondylitis is caused by inflammation, while spondylosis results from wear and tear of the spinal discs and joints over time.

A rheumatologist commonly diagnoses spondyloarthritis, since they are specially trained to diagnose and treat disorders that affect the joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, connective tissue, and bones.

Axial spondyloarthritis primarily affects the spine and hips, causing inflammatory pain and arthritis in these areas. Peripheral spondyloarthritis affects joints and tendons outside the spine, such as the arms and legs.

Yes. A person can have both axial and peripheral symptoms. The symptoms that are most prominent help determine how the condition is classified.

Spondyloarthritis can affect various parts of the body, including the spine, hips, and other joints, such as the hands, knees, ankles, and feet. It can also cause inflammation in the tendons, eyes, skin, and digestive system.

Spondyloarthritis usually develops gradually in young adulthood, with symptoms most often beginning before age 45.

Enthesitis is inflammation where tendons and ligaments attach to bone. It can cause pain and tenderness in areas that experience repeated stress or pressure, such as the heels, feet, and other parts of the body.

Arthritis is a broad term for conditions that affect the joints, while spondyloarthritis refers to a specific group of inflammatory conditions. SpA commonly affects the spine and the areas where tendons and ligaments attach to bone.

There is currently no cure for spondyloarthritis. However, treatments can help manage pain and other symptoms, and some newer biologic medications may slow the progression of the disease in some people. Finding the right treatment can take time because people respond differently to medications.

Many people with spondyloarthritis live normal, active, and productive lives. The condition affects everyone differently, but treatments, regular exercise, and managing inflammation and pain can help control symptoms and maintain daily activities. Some people may experience more severe symptoms or complications, so working with a rheumatologist can help you manage the condition and protect your quality of life.

Spondyloarthropathy cannot currently be reversed, but treatment can help control inflammation, manage symptoms, and slow disease progression. Staying active and following a treatment plan can also help maintain mobility and function.