Spondyloarthropathy

Spondyloarthropathy refers to a group of chronic inflammatory rheumatic diseases that primarily affect the axial skeleton (spine and sacroiliac joints) and, in some cases, peripheral joints.

These conditions are characterized by inflammation, pain, and progressive joint damage.

What Are the Signs/Symptoms?

• Inflammatory Back Pain: Pain that improves with activity and worsens with rest.

• Peripheral Arthritis: Typically asymmetric and affects lower extremities.

• Enthesitis: Inflammation at sites where tendons or ligaments attach to bone, such as the Achilles tendon.

• Dactylitis: Swelling of an entire finger or toe, also known as “sausage digits.”

• Extra-articular Manifestations: Includes uveitis (eye inflammation), psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease.

What Are Common Treatments?

Management aims to reduce symptoms, improve function, and prevent complications:

• Medications

  • Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): First-line treatment for pain and inflammation.

  • Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs): Used for peripheral arthritis (e.g., methotrexate, sulfasalazine).

  • Biologics: TNF inhibitors (e.g., etanercept, infliximab) and IL-17 inhibitors (e.g., secukinumab) for severe cases.

• Physical Therapy

  • Exercises to maintain spinal mobility and posture.

  • Strengthening and stretching routines to reduce stiffness.

• Lifestyle Modifications

  • Regular exercise to improve joint function.

  • Smoking cessation, as smoking can worsen symptoms.

  • A healthy diet to support overall well-being.

• Surgical Modifications

  • Rarely needed but may include joint replacement or spinal correction surgery in severe cases.