Make the Most

of your rheumatologist visit

Be prepared for every appointment

Open and honest conversations with your doctor are key to managing your AS effectively. Use these resources created with rheumatologists, including Dr. Manish Jain, to show up confidently prepared to tell your doctor how AS symptoms impact your life—it can help them create a treatment plan that works for you. 

Still Feeling Symptoms? Say More

WHAT YOUR DOCTOR LISTENS FOR

Speak up about any worsening, new, or daily AS symptoms.

Example phrase:
“I still can’t bend down to pick things up or turn my neck when I’m driving.”

Let your doctor know if your AS symptoms are getting in the way of everyday tasks. 

Example phrase:
“I’m still having issues with everyday things like cleaning around the house.” 

Not Sure Your Treatment’s Working? Say More

WHAT YOUR DOCTOR LISTENS FOR

Discuss if your current medication seems to be losing effectiveness over time.

Example phrase:
“I don't think my AS medication is working like it used to.”

Start an open conversation about the AS treatment options available to you. 

Example phrase:
“I want to hear more about other AS treatment options that may be right 
for me.” 

Share your AS treatment goals with your doctor, no matter how big or small. 

Example phrase:
“I want to go on longer walks without AS back pain interfering.” 

Doctor discussions by the numbers

We partnered with the Global Healthy Living Foundation to ask more than 2,000 patients about their conversations and connection with their rheumatologists. 

The Global Healthy Living Foundation (GHLF) is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to inspire, support, and empower people living with chronic illnesses, such as ankylosing spondylitis. GHLF is the parent of the 25-year-old online patient community, CreakyJoints. 

Global Healthy Living Foundation

Dr. Manish Jain's tips on how to be heard

Dr. Manish Jain is a board-certified rheumatologist with over 12 years of experience.

Dr. Jain is a paid consultant of AbbVie.

Get appointment

Ready

If you're not getting enough AS symptom relief on your current treatment plan, speak up. Prepare for a productive appointment with your rheumatologist today.