Does ankylosing spondylitis cause leg pain?

In general, whether ankylosing spondylitis causes leg pain depends on the individual condition. Some patients will experience leg pain, especially when the disease affects the lower limb joints. However, some patients in the early stages or those with milder conditions may not have leg pain, but only experience lower back pain. Detailed analysis is as follows:

If ankylosing spondylitis progresses and involves lower limb joints such as the hip, knee, or ankle joints, the patient will experience leg pain. The pain is often described as a dull ache or throbbing discomfort, which may worsen with activity and temporarily improve with rest. As the condition progresses, the pain may become more frequent and even affect normal lower limb movement. Some patients may also experience joint swelling and stiffness.

If the patient is in the early stage of ankylosing spondylitis and the inflammation mainly affects the sacroiliac joints and lower back without involving the lower limb joints, or if the condition is well-controlled and the inflammation is mild, leg pain symptoms may not occur. In such cases, symptoms may include only lower back pain and stiffness, particularly noticeable upon waking in the morning, which may improve after moving around for a while.

To relieve potential leg pain and control the progression of the disease, proper daily care is essential. Maintaining correct posture while standing and sitting, avoiding prolonged bending or sitting, and reducing joint strain are all important measures.