Background <p>Axiale Spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is one of the most frequent rheumatic diseases among young adults.</p> Objectives <p>Determination of the current recommendations for diagnosing and treating axSpA, discussion of the clinical relevance and situation of soldiers with axSpA in the German armed forces.</p> Materials and methods <p>Evaluation of national and international guidelines and literature review.</p> Results <p>AxSpA might be one of the most common underlying rheumatic diseases requiring treatment and is predicted to be an important differential diagnosis of chronic back pain in soldiers in the German armed forces. Early termination of deployment and possible premature termination of military service are associated with chronic back pain. Currently, axSpA is related to limited serviceability. New specific therapies can prevent impending service disability at an early stage.</p> Conclusion <p>Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to counteract reduced serviceability.</p>