Rheumatological

Ankylosing Spondylitis / Axial Spondyloarthritis

A condition causing inflammation mainly in the spine and pelvis, typically bringing stiffness that's worse in the morning or after rest and easier with movement.

This overview is general information, not a diagnosis. If you're experiencing symptoms, your first step should always be your doctor or a specialist — not this page.

Who typically manages this

Rheumatological autoimmune conditions are usually managed by a rheumatologist, often alongside a physiotherapist or occupational therapist. Common day-to-day themes across this group include pacing activity around fatigue, staying physically active in ways that suit your flare pattern, and planning ahead around vaccination or pregnancy where relevant.

Navigating care in South Africa

In South Africa, autoimmune conditions on the Prescribed Minimum Benefit (PMB) Chronic Disease List may qualify for defined funding through your medical aid. AutoImmune Companion's Navigator maps the specialist referral pathway for each body system and explains PMB and funding basics in plain language — general information only, not a substitute for advice from your medical aid or specialist.

Tracking Ankylosing Spondylitis / Axial Spondyloarthritis with AutoImmune Companion SA

Two tools, BASDAI and ASDAS-CRP, track spinal pain, stiffness, and disease activity. Everything you log — flares, medication, appointments — stays on your own device and is never sent to a server unless you choose to share a printed summary with your specialist.

Open AutoImmune Companion

AutoImmune Companion SA does not diagnose Ankylosing Spondylitis / Axial Spondyloarthritis or any other condition, does not recommend treatment, and does not replace your specialist. It is a free tool for tracking and preparing for appointments only.