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07702 794 597
info@rheumatologyleicester.co.uk
Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the spine and other joints, causing significant impact on daily life for many patients. As an experienced Rheumatologist Leicester patients trust, Dr. Veena Patel provides comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for this complex autoimmune condition.
This inflammatory arthritis primarily affects the spine and pelvis, particularly the sacroiliac joints. The condition causes inflammation that can eventually lead to the fusion of vertebrae, reducing spinal flexibility over time. This spinal condition typically begins in teenagers and young adults, making early recognition and treatment essential.
Unlike mechanical back pain, inflammatory back pain from this condition worsens with rest and improves with movement. Patients often experience their worst symptoms in the morning and may wake during the night due to pain and stiffness.
Research shows that over 80% of people with this condition carry a specific gene variant called HLA-B27. However, having this gene doesn’t guarantee developing the disease. About 8% of the general population carries HLA-B27, yet most never develop inflammatory arthritis. Dr. Patel explains that genetic testing can support diagnosis but isn’t used in isolation.
The condition presents with distinctive symptoms that develop gradually:
Primary signs include:
Additional symptoms may involve:
Diagnosing this inflammatory condition requires expertise, as symptoms can resemble other disorders. As a specialist rheumatologist serving Leicester patients, Dr. Veena Patel uses a thorough diagnostic approach:
Clinical Evaluation: Detailed assessment of symptoms, family history, and physical examination to evaluate spinal mobility and joint inflammation patterns.
Laboratory Tests: Blood tests measure inflammatory markers and check for the HLA-B27 gene, though normal results don’t exclude the diagnosis.
Medical Imaging: X-rays can reveal joint damage and spinal changes in established disease, while MRI scans detect early inflammation before structural damage occurs.
While there’s no cure for this spinal condition, effective treatments can control symptoms and prevent progression. Dr. Patel develops personalized treatment plans combining multiple approaches:
Physical Therapy and Exercise:
Regular movement remains fundamental to managing this condition. Structured physiotherapy programs, including water-based exercises and targeted strengthening, help maintain flexibility and reduce pain.
Medication Options:
Successful management extends beyond medication. Dr. Veena Patel emphasizes several key aspects:
Managing inflammatory arthritis requires specialized knowledge and experience. Dr. Veena Patel brings extensive expertise in treating complex rheumatological conditions, offering patients in Leicester access to the latest treatments and comprehensive care approaches.
Early intervention makes a significant difference in long-term outcomes. The sooner treatment begins, the better the chances of maintaining mobility and preventing permanent joint damage.
If you’re experiencing persistent back pain that’s worse in the morning, improves with movement, or disrupts your sleep, it’s important to seek professional evaluation. These symptoms, especially when combined with family history or other inflammatory signs, warrant assessment by a rheumatology specialist.
Contact Dr. Veena Patel’s practice to schedule a consultation and begin your journey toward effective management of inflammatory arthritis.