Special Tests for Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Deep Dive by Physio360.

INTRODUCTION;

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory condition primarily affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints, leading to stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility. Diagnosing AS early is crucial for effective management and long-term wellness. While imaging and blood tests play a role, special physiotherapy tests are essential in assessing the physical manifestations of AS. At Physio360, our expert team uses these validated special tests to help detect, monitor, and manage ankylosing spondylitis effectively.

Why Special Tests Matter.

Many early signs of ankylosing spondylitis can be subtle or overlap with general back pain. Special clinical tests performed by trained physiotherapists can reveal the presence of inflammation, reduced range of motion, and structural changes—key indicators of AS.

At Physio360, our physiotherapists are trained to perform these tests accurately, ensuring early detection and better treatment outcomes.

Common Special Tests for Ankylosing Spondylitis.

1. Modified Schober's Test.

Purpose: To assess lumbar spine flexibility.

How it’s done:

• The patient stands upright.

• A point is marked 10 cm above and 5 cm below the lumbosacral junction (typically at the level of the PSIS).

• The patient bends forward as far as possible.

• The distance between the two points is measured again.

Interpretation: If the increase in distance is less than 5 cm, it indicates reduced lumbar flexion—an early sign of ankylosing spondylitis.

✅ This test is routinely done at Physio360 to evaluate spinal flexibility in AS patients.

2. Chest Expansion Test

Purpose: Measures the expansion of the rib cage during inhalation.

How it’s done:

• The measuring tape is wrapped around the chest at the level of the 4th intercostal space (nipple line).

• The patient is asked to exhale fully, and the measurement is noted.

• Then the patient inhales deeply, and the measurement is taken again.

Interpretation: A chest expansion of less than 2.5 cm is suggestive of ankylosing spondylitis.

🎯 At Physio360, this test is particularly useful in tracking thoracic mobility throughout your rehab journey.

3. Occiput-to-Wall Test (OWT)

Purpose: To assess thoracic kyphosis and cervical spine mobility.

How it’s done:

• The patient stands with heels, back, and buttocks against a wall.

• The distance between the occiput (back of the head) and the wall is measured.

Interpretation: Any gap between the occiput and the wall indicates spinal stiffness, often caused by AS.

💡 Our posture specialists at Physio360 use this test to monitor forward head posture and upper spine rigidity in AS patients.

4. Finger-to-Floor Distance Test

Purpose: To evaluate general spine and hamstring flexibility.

How it’s done:

• The patient bends forward without bending the knees.

• The distance between the fingertips and the floor is measured.

Interpretation: Inability to reach the floor or an increased distance indicates stiffness, which may be due to ankylosing spondylitis.

👣 Physio360 experts use this test in conjunction with other tests to provide a comprehensive assessment.

5. FABER Test (Patrick’s Test)

Purpose: Assesses hip and sacroiliac joint involvement.

How it’s done:

• The patient lies on their back.

• One leg is placed in a figure-four position (hip flexed, abducted, and externally rotated).

• The examiner applies gentle downward pressure on the knee.

Interpretation: Pain in the sacroiliac region during this test may indicate sacroiliitis, common in ankylosing spondylitis.

🛠️ At Physio360, this test is part of our diagnostic toolkit when evaluating persistent lower back or buttock pain.

6. Gaenslen’s Test

Purpose: Identifies sacroiliac joint pathology.

How it’s done:

• The patient lies on their back near the edge of the table.

• One leg is pulled toward the chest while the other leg hangs off the edge and is gently pressed downward.

Interpretation: Pain in the SI joint area is a positive sign, suggesting inflammation typical of ankylosing spondylitis.

🧠 Physio360’s highly trained physiotherapists use this test to isolate sacroiliac joint issues from general back problems.

How Physio360 Integrates These Tests into Treatment.

At Physio360, we don’t just diagnose—we empower you with a customized rehab plan that targets the root of your discomfort. After evaluating your symptoms using these special tests, our experts create a plan that may include:

• Posture correction exercises

• Spinal mobility training

• Manual therapy and joint mobilization

• Breathing exercises to improve chest expansion

• Hydrotherapy and stretching routines

• Dry needling and kinesiology taping (as needed)

  
  

When Should You See a Physiotherapist?

If you experience any of the following, you should visit Physio360 in Chennai:

• Chronic lower back pain, especially if it improves with exercise

• Morning stiffness that lasts more than 30 minutes

• Reduced spine flexibility

• Pain in the buttocks or back that alternates sides

• A family history of ankylosing spondylitis

  
  

Why Choose Physio360?

🔹 Advanced diagnostic techniques

🔹 Experienced physiotherapists trained in spinal disorders

🔹 Customized rehab plans tailored to your symptoms and lifestyle

🔹 State-of-the-art equipment for spine and joint rehabilitation

🔹 Convenient locations and affordable care

Physio360 is widely recognized for providing the best physiotherapy care for ankylosing spondylitis in Chennai. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or struggling with long-term stiffness, we’re here to help you move better, feel stronger, and live pain-free.

Book an Assessment Today.

Ready to take control of your spinal health? Visit Physio360 Chennai and let our expert team assess you using these special tests. Early intervention can make all the difference. Say goodbye to stiffness and hello to strength—only at Physio360!

📞 Call us or drop by your nearest Physio360 Centre to book an appointment today.

REFERENCE AND RESEARCH ARTICLE ;

1.Diagnosis and Treatment of Ankylosing Spondylitishttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10874590/.

2.Assessments in ankylosing spondylitishttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.berh.2007.02.010