inflammatory condition that can be really difficult to live with, but
you can help manage the symptoms of this debilitating disease with smart
lifestyle choices, ranging from a specific exercise plan to more
unusual treatments like acupuncture. This article focuses on these
at-home treatments that will make life with this condition easier, can
slow down the progression of the disease and prevent the development of
dangerous complications.
What are the signs and symptoms if Ankylosing Spondylitis?
vary greatly, with some patients reporting back pain and stiffness in
their late adolescence, and others starting to experience pain or
immobility in other parts of the body as late as their mid-40s. Since
the causes of the condition are still unknown, it is difficult to
predict why people develop AS, but it is known that it may have a
genetic component.
Also, men are more likely to suffer from AS
than women, and in women, the condition more often manifests itself
differently than in men, making diagnosis even more challenging. AS
typically starts in the lower back, but it can affect most joints, such
as:
The joint between connecting the spine with the pelvis
Vertebrae, especially the lower back
Hips
Shoulders
Ribs and the breast bone
Despite the great variability, AS can be
characterized by the following symptoms depending on the stage of the
development of the disease:
Back pain
Stiffness
Symptoms usually worse during periods of inactivity, such as, sleep, or long periods of sitting
Poor posture or Stooped shoulders
Pain and lack of flexibility in the feet
Loss of appetite
Low-grade fever
Weight loss
Fatigue
Anemia or low iron
traditional ways of managing the symptoms of AS, but doctors urge AS
patients to stay active to slow the progression of the disease, as there
is no cure for AS.
Yoga and stretching
Retaining your flexibility and range of
motion is one of the main goals for an AS patient, as it helps your
posture and reduces the pain. Yoga and stretching on a daily basis can
make your spine and joints more flexible and improve your strength. Here
is an example of yoga exercises beneficial for your spine.
Hot and cold temperatures are your friend
if you’re experiencing stiffness or if your joints feel inflamed and
painful. A warming shower or heating pads can decrease the pain and
stiffness that come with AS, and ice packs may be helpful at reducing
inflammation.
Exercise
Exercises that aim to stabilize and
strengthen the joints are very beneficial to AS patients. These include
range-of-motion exercises and strength training exercises. Strength
exercises will also help you maintain a healthy weight, which is very
important for AS patients. We have a dedicated article on the types of
exercise that can reduce pain and inflammation that can be accessed
through this link.
Posture training
As we have discussed above, bad posture is
one of the symptoms of AS, as the stiffness and the pain in the spine
affect one’s posture. Practice good posture, give yourself reminders and
be aware of how you carry your weight on a regular basis. You can also
use special devices, such as chairs and seats that encourage good
posture.
Therapeutic Massages
Therapeutic massages are beneficial for
people suffering from AS, as they can help with the range of motion.
Both relaxing and invigorating massages are beneficial, just make sure
to mention to your massage therapist that you have AS, as deep tissue
massage and joint massage is usually prohibited for patients with AS,
and therapists use a specific kind of technique to relieve the pain and
inflammation for this condition.
This Ancient Chinese medicinal technique is
known for stimulating specific points in the body, which triggers the
release of pain-relieving hormones in the brain so this treatment can be
beneficial for relieving pain for some AS patients. If you’re
considering acupuncture to treat AS, look for a trained professional who
works in a clean environment and uses sterile or disposable needles.
In summary, there are a variety of different home treatments of
ankylosing spondylitis that will help people suffering from this
condition maintain an active and fulfilling life, but each treatment
should be discussed and supported by a medical professional for your
safety.
