Not necessarily! Seeing changes on an imaging scan doesn't automatically mean fusion has started. Imaging can reveal different stages of what's happening in your spine and joints.
Here's what imaging can show at different points:
- Early signs: Inflammation in the sacroiliac joints (sacroiliitis) can appear on MRI before any Show Full Answer
Not necessarily! Seeing changes on an imaging scan doesn't automatically mean fusion has started. Imaging can reveal different stages of what's happening in your spine and joints.
Here's what imaging can show at different points:
- Early signs: Inflammation in the sacroiliac joints (sacroiliitis) can appear on MRI before any structural damage occurs
- Intermediate signs: Bone erosion or early bone changes may be visible on X-ray
- Advanced signs: Actual fusion (ankylosis) where vertebrae begin growing together It's also worth knowing that X-rays can take 6 to 10 years to show enough damage to be visible, while MRI can catch inflammation much earlier — before any fusion begins.
Fusion is a more advanced stage of spondylitis, and not everyone progresses to that point. In fact, one study found that up to 25% of people showed no progression on imaging over 12 years.
The best person to interpret what your imaging actually means for *your* specific situation is your rheumatologist, who can explain exactly what stage things are at and what it means for your treatment plan.
September 21
Join
Your Privacy Choices
