Spondyloarthropathies are a group of inflammatory conditions that primarily affect the spine, sacroiliac joints, and sometimes other joints and areas where tendons or ligaments attach to bone. They can cause persistent pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Conditions within this group include ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, reactive arthritis, and enteropathic arthritis.

Symptoms can vary significantly from person to person. Unlike mechanical back pain, inflammatory back pain may be worse after periods of rest and can improve with appropriate movement. Early assessment and appropriate management can help maintain mobility and physical function.