Axial SpA Diagnosis Playbook & Toolkit
We have developed an evidence based, “best practice” approach to support you in reducing the time to diagnosis locally, as well as the essential support that patients should receive when they are diagnosed. This is co-badged by GIRFT.
Time to Diagnosis Patient Survey
This survey is completed by patients where the rheumatology department has signed up to help understand their journey to diagnosis. You can get access to your local data, find out how you compare to the national average and help us build the national picture.
Get involved and find support
NASS has set up a peer to peer network open to any healthcare professional working in axial SpA, whether in the NHS or private practice. We also have our annual Changemaker Awards to reward those working to reduce the delay to diagnosis which follow the implementation of the Playbook.
The Act on Axial SpA Campaign
The Act on Axial SpA campaign was launched in 2021 to reduce the delay to diagnosis. Find out more about the history of the campaign, what we have achieved so far and what we plan to do next, as well as access all of our public awareness materials.
NASS Publications and Research
The campaign and corresponding Playbook are based on robust evidence gathered by NASS. Here you will find the NASS publications, our articles in scientific journals and corresponding articles from outside the campaign.
If you are living with axial SpA
If you suspect that you might have axial SpA please take the Symptom Checker. If you have recently been diagnosed, or have been living with the condition for a long time, you will find a wealth of information on the main NASS website.
Symptoms starting slowly
Pain in the lower back
Improves with movement
Night time waking
Early onset (under 40)
