What are the diagnostic criteria for ankylosing spondylitis?

The diagnostic criteria for ankylosing spondylitis include both clinical symptoms and radiographic findings. Most patients with ankylosing spondylitis experience low back pain and morning stiffness, and may also develop restricted lumbar mobility. To establish a definitive diagnosis, specialized physicians typically require imaging studies such as lumbar X-ray and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Once diagnosed, treatment options include analgesics such as celecoxib or diclofenac sodium to relieve pain, along with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).