On this episode of the Dance PT Podcast, Jenna Kantor, PT, DPT, and Dance PT Certified, dives into a condition that can quietly but profoundly impact dancers: Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS).AS is a chronic inflammatory disease that targets the spine and sacroiliac joints, leading to stiffness, pain, and potentially vertebral fusion. For dancers, even subtle spinal restrictions can disrupt alignment, breathing, movement quality, and artistic expression. As clinicians, recognizing early signs and implementing evidence-based, dance-specific interventions is crucial to helping performers maintain their craft while managing a chronic condition.In this episode, Jenna walks you through:How AS presents in dancers—including red flags like morning stiffness, restricted spinal mobility, and fatigue disproportionate to rehearsal demandsClinical assessment strategies—what to look for in movement patterns, posture, and functional dance tasksEvidence-based treatment strategies—from joint mobility and core stabilization to rib cage expansion and functional dance retrainingProgramming for performance—how to safely progress from basic mobility to choreography simulation while minimizing flare-upsPrevention and long-term maintenance—ways to preserve movement, strength, and artistryReferral and imaging guidance—when to involve rheumatology or order advanced imagingWith practical, research-informed insights and dance-specific adaptations, this episode is designed to help PTs and PTAs support dancers in maintaining performance, function, and longevity.For more connection and education, join the Dance PT Facebook Group to share strategies with other dance-focused clinicians, and explore the Dance PT Program CEU Course at danceptprogram.com to deepen your expertise in treating performing artists.