Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is a chronic rheumatic condition in which inflammation develops in the spine and the pelvic joints. Characteristic symptoms are long-standing back pain and stiffness – particularly at night and in the early morning – and fatigue. These symptoms can significantly limit day-to-day functioning.
Exercise is an essential part of treatment in axSpA. Scientific research shows that long-term, personalised and supervised exercise therapy is effective for patients with axSpA and severe functional limitations. Our care focuses on, among other things:
- keeping the spine and joints supple: with mobilising exercises and posture advice
- improving muscle strength and fitness: tailored to your abilities and everyday activities
- learning to live with the condition: finding a good balance between load and load capacity, including during flare-ups
Since 1 January 2026, physiotherapy for axSpA with severe functional limitations has been fully reimbursed under the Dutch basic health insurance: from the very first session and with no maximum number of treatments. The condition is that treatment is provided by a physiotherapist or exercise therapist trained for this purpose. At Fysiotherapie Kijkduin this treatment is provided by Jana Hussain, who has completed the KNGF training programme in axial spondyloarthritis and has been qualified to offer this therapy since 2026. The indication is established during your first appointment.
Would you like to know whether you are eligible? Please feel free to get in touch – we will look at the possibilities together with you and, where needed, with your GP or rheumatologist.