Answer Summary

Members confirmed that leg weakness is a common experience with ankylosing spondylitis, with many sharing that muscle tightness from... Read more

Members confirmed that leg weakness is a common experience with ankylosing spondylitis, with many sharing that muscle tightness from inflammation, spasms, and unpredictable episodes where legs give out entirely have significantly impacted their mobility and daily lives. Several members emphasized the importance of daily stretching routines (especially the Spondylitis Association of America's Back in Action exercises), staying active with biking or walking, taking medications like muscle relaxers, Lyrica, or gabapentin, and using mobility aids such as canes, walkers, or wheelchairs when needed. A recurring theme was the fear and frustration of sudden falls without warning, the necessity of pacing oneself to avoid overdoing it, and the shared understanding that progression varies but staying as mobile as possible through stretching and movement can help manage symptoms.