Living with AS for nearly 40 years is no small thing, and it's completely understandable to be dealing with a lot right now. A rectocele isn't something directly discussed in the spondylitis community resources available here, so it's hard to speak to shared experiences around that specifically.
What can be said is that Show Full Answer
Living with AS for nearly 40 years is no small thing, and it's completely understandable to be dealing with a lot right now. A rectocele isn't something directly discussed in the spondylitis community resources available here, so it's hard to speak to shared experiences around that specifically.
What can be said is that lower back pain is one of the most common and persistent symptoms of AS, and it can intensify over time. After decades with AS, lower back pain can worsen due to several factors, including:
- Spinal inflammation that has built up over many years
- Bone density loss — up to 62% of people with AS develop reduced bone density, which can increase pain and fracture risk
- Spinal fusion — over time, vertebrae can fuse, causing stiffness and significant pain
- Cervical spine involvement — around 70% of people with AS for 20+ years develop cervical spine inflammation
It's really worth speaking with your rheumatologist about your current lower back pain, especially given how long you've been managing AS. They can assess whether anything has progressed and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
September 8
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