Orthopaedic physicians' awareness, diagnostic challenges and referral barriers in axial spondyloarthritis: insights from a nationwide survey in Germany.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is a chronic inflammatory disease primarily affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints, potentially leading to pain, stiffness and disability. Despite diagnostic advances, delays persist. Orthopaedic physicians, often the first specialists consulted for back pain, play a crucial role in early detection and referral to rheumatologists.

Objectives

To evaluate orthopaedic physicians' awareness and management of axSpA and factors that might affect appropriate management.

Design

An online nationwide survey was conducted among orthopaedic physicians in Germany to assess their axSpA knowledge, diagnostic and therapeutic practices and referral behaviours.

Methods

Descriptive statistics were used to summarize participant charact

SUBMITTER: Proft F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12394871 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature