Objective: The aim of the study was to describe and compare self-reported physical function, disease activity, well-being and physical activity in patients with ankylosing spondylitis with or without regular follow-up by a physiotherapist. Methods: 68 patients answered self-administered questionnaires. Results: 25 patients were followed on a regular basis by a physiotherapist and 43 patients were not followed on a regular basis. The group followed by a physiotherapist reported lower disease activity and higher well-being but worse physical function than the other group did, but the differences between the groups were not significant. There were, however, significantly more patients in the group that was not followed by a physiotherapist who reported sedentary leisure time than in the other group. Background factors such as gender, age, disease duration, education and employment did not differ between the two groups. The group that was followed on a regular basis by a physiotherapist reported a greater amount of physiotherapy and information about physical activity the last year and used more NSAID than the group that was not followed by a physiotherapist. Conclusion: Patients with ankylosing spondylitis should have the possibility to consult a physiotherapist but regular follow-up should be based on a judgement of each individual case. Key words: ankylosing spondylitis, physiotherapy, physical function, disease activity, well-being, physical activity