Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I am a 35-year-old man and I have had chronic back pain for years. My doctor thinks it might be non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis, but they want to do some tests first. What types of imaging or blood tests will help confirm this? if it is spondyloarthritis, what are my treatment options? I am wondering if I will need medication, or if physical therapy will be enough.
Kindly help.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com
I understand your concern.
The most sensitive test is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to confirm if you have non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA). It can detect inflammation in your sacroiliac joints and spine before any structural damage shows up on X-rays. In nr-axSpA, there may be inflammation without obvious damage. X-rays can still be done to rule out other types of arthritis.
People with spondyloarthritis often test positive for the HLA-B27 gene (human leukocyte antigen). If these levels are high, blood tests like C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) can show signs of active inflammation.
Treatment depends on how severe your symptoms are and how much inflammation is found. Common treatments include:
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Physical therapy: Regular therapy can improve flexibility, posture, and strength, which helps reduce pain and stiffness.
Biologics: If NSAIDs and physical therapy do not work well, biologics like TNF (tumor necrosis factor) inhibitors or IL (interleukin) -17 inhibitors may be used. These target specific parts of the immune system to reduce inflammation and are helpful for more severe cases.
In addition, exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing stress can also help control symptoms.
You will need to see a rheumatologist for a full physical exam to determine the best treatment plan.
I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at icliniq.
Thank you.
Was this conversation helpful?
Answered byDr. Sugandh Garg
Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.