Find out more about axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA)

axSpA can affect more than your joints. Find out how it may affect other parts of your body.

Find out how axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is diagnosed.

Find out more about non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA).

Information for people who have just been recently diagnosed

If you have been living with axSpA for a while you might be concerned about how it will affect you in the future.

Find out how non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA) is diagnosed.

If you have suffered back pain for more than three months, ask yourself these questions.

A axSpA diagnosis can be overwhelming. Find out about ways to help you manage.

axSpA can affect many areas of the body. Read about the different areas of the body it can affect.

Enthesitis can cause pain and stiffness at the point where the tendons and ligaments attach to the bone.

Uveitis is inflammation in the eye. Find out about causes, symptoms and treatments.

Read how axSpA can affect the neck.

Many people with axSpA will experience back pain. Read more about axSpA and back pain.

Read how axSpA can affect the shoulder.

Read how axSpA can affect your hips.

Read how axSpA can affect the knee.

Read how the joints in your fingers, thumbs, knuckles and wrists can be affected by axSpA.

Read how axSpA can affect joints in your ankles, feet and toes.

axSpA can increase the risk of osteoporosis. Read about ways to help reduce your risk.

Why axSpA puts you at greater risk for heart disease, and what you can do to protect yourself.

Although uncommon, some people with axSpA can develop lung problems.

axSpA can increase your risk of Inflammatory bowel disease. Read about ways to reduce your risk.

Read how blood tests are used to diagnose and monitor axSpA

Imaging tests are used to look for signs of axSpA, such as joint damage and to monitor the disease’s progression.

Methotrexate is an effective treatment for axSpA

DMARDs are used to treat inflammatory forms of arthritis, such as axSpA.

Useful information on self-injecting methotrexate.

Sulfasalazine is a medicine used to treat axSpA and other conditions.

Hydroxychloroquine is a medicine used to treat inflammatory arthritis

Leflunomide is a medicine used to treat axSpA

Read about bDMARDS and how they can be used to treat axSpA

Adalimumab is a class of medicine called biological disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDS)

Etanercept is one of a group of medicines called biological disease modifying antirheumatic drugs

Upadacitinib is a medicine used to treat symptoms of AxSpA and other inflammatory conditions.

Infliximab helps with blocking natural substances called cytokines found in joints of people suffering from axSpA

Golimumab lessens inflammation, pain symptoms and helps stop further joint damage

Certolizumab lessens inflammation, pain symptoms and helps stop further joint damage

Ixekizumab (Taltz) is a medicine used to treat axSpA

Tofacitinib is a tablet that belongs to a class of medicines called Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitors

Secukinumab is used to treat axSpA and minimise joint swelling, pain and stiffness

Paracetamol is a common pain killer (analgesic).

Pain relievers are often the first medicine your doctor will recommend to help with pain.

NSAIDs reduce inflammation, joint swelling and stiffness.

Opioids are medicines taken to help reduce pain.

Prednisolone and prednisone are man-made glucocorticoids, which are used to treat inflammatory diseases

Corticosteroids are used to treat inflammatory forms of arthritis.

Physiotherapy is an important part of treatment for arthritis.

an occupation therapist can help you manage your axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA).

Hydrotherapy involves exercising in warm water.

A clinical psychologist is an expert in mental health and may help some people living with axSpA

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can help people living with chronic pain

Read about the types of surgery for axSpA

Read about what to expect after surgery

A range of healthcare professionals may be involved in helping you manage your arthritis.

A rheumatologist is a specialist doctor who diagnoses and treats joint, muscle and bone disorders.

Dermatologists are doctors who are experts in managing skin diseases, including psoriasis.

Your general practitioner (GP or local doctor) is usually your main provider of health care.

Rheumatology nurses are nurses with a specialist knowledge in arthritis.

Physiotherapists can advise you on exercise, posture and ways to relieve pain.

Occupational therapists (OT) can help you to do things that reduces joint strain and pain.

Exercise physiologists design, deliver and advise on safe and effective exercise programs.

Podiatrists specialise in conditions affecting the feet and lower limbs.

Dietitians are experts in food and nutrition. They provide advice about healthy eating and weight loss.

Psychologists can teach you ways to cope with any pain and emotions you feel due to your arthritis

Optometrists help to look after eye health and care of our eyes.

Pharmacists can help you to understand your medicines and how to take them safely and correctly.

Ophthalmologists are specialist eye doctors who handle all the medical aspects of eye care.

Orthopaedic surgeons use surgery to treat problems caused by disease and injury in the bones, joints and other...

Read about the steps you can take to live well with arthritis.

Read why exercise is an important part of managing axSpA

Exercise can help you improve your health and fitness without hurting your joints.

A list of exercise resources for people with advanced axSpA or lower physical activity levels

Back to Action is an exercise program developed by the UK's National Axial Spondyloarthritis Society (NASS)

Exercising in water is a great way to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility and ease stiff joints.

Walking is one of the most effective means of reducing the pain and stiffness associated with axSpA

Strength training is a name for activities or exercises that build the strength of your muscles.

Tai chi is an ancient, Chinese martial art form that is practised around the world as a type of gentle exercise.

Dance and aerobic classes can improve cardiovascular fitness, pain relief, flexibility and balance.

Golf is a great for walking, mental stimulation, socialising and stress-relief.

The best diet for arthritis is a healthy, balanced one to maintain your general health.

Read about ways to help manage fatigue

Are your symptoms affecting your sleep, or is your trouble sleeping making your symptoms worse?

Learn how your arthritis and other factors may be causing your extreme tiredness.

Read about protecting your joints while doing daily activities.

The right shoes can make a big difference. Read about what you should look for when choosing shoes.

Read about ways to protect your joints while gardening.

Find out about some non-pharmacological treatments to help you do daily tasks

Self-help devices can make tasks easier on your joints and more efficient for you.

Things to consider if you are purchasing a stairlift for your home.

Read how smoking could be worsening your symptoms.

Read more about ‘Complementary therapies’ for arthritis.

Read about the effect of acupuncture on arthritis

Fish oils can help reduce inflammation and support general health.

Learn about long-term pain and things you can do to help manage it.

Regular meditation may help manage the pain associated with axSpA

Unhelpful or negative ways of thinking can make arthritis pain worse.

Warm water may help relieve joint pain and stiffness.

Read how heat and cold treatments can help to relieve joint pain.

Use this action plan to discuss and plan the best way to manage flares.

Read about strategies to help manage your mental wellbeing

Having axSpA can have a negative effect on your mental health.

Read about how the importance of caring for your emotional symptoms is an important part of arthritis care.

Learn more about the positive steps you can take to help manage your mental wellbeing.

Read about some stress relievers you can do to help manage stress.

Read about whether trauma or stress can affect arthritis

Learning more about arthritis and how it is managed can help provide supportive care and assistance.

If you know someone with arthritis, there may be many ways you could offer them your help.

Tips on what not to say to someone with axSpA

Arthritis may have an impact on you romantic relationship. Read about ways to help overcome any challenges

Information on pregnancy and axSpA

Tips on caring for your new baby while managing your arthritis

Can menopause worsen your axSpA?

Find out more about services that can help you find or remain in the workforce.

Information about education and training and services that can assist you.

An outline of financial support that may be available to you.

Peer support groups give people a chance to connect with other people with arthritis.

Finding the right professional for your needs is an important step to managing your arthritis condition.

Call our toll free National Arthritis Infoline number for information about axSpA.

Information on the NDIS.

Find organisations and resources that can help with arthritis and arthritis-related issues.