Ankylosing spondylitis or AS affects the spine along with sacroiliac joints. This is a chronic inflammatory condition that can lead to a lot of stiffness and pain. Those that suffer from this condition can also experience reduced mobility which can be very challenging when it comes to carrying out day to day activities.
You need to collaborate with healthcare professionals
To ensure the comprehensive management of your condition. By working with a team of professionals such as physical therapists, occupational therapists, rheumatologists and pain specialists, you will be able to achieve an effective treatment plan that addresses different aspects of the condition. This also allows for a more personalised treatment of Ankylosing Spondylitis. You can click here to find out how you can cope with the condition without missing out on your life. There is a very important role for physical activity when managing ankylosing spondylitis. You need to exercise regularly in order to keep up your flexibility and improve posture. By strengthening muscles, you can improve your physical capabilities. And long term exercise can help manage pain and fitness. But make sure that you work with a physical therapist to understand which specific exercises are recommended for this condition.
If you have not exercised previously as a routine activity,
You need to start slow and follow the plan laid out by your physical therapist. They will help teach you exercises that target affected areas such as strength training, stretching and low impact aerobic exercise. You can slowly increase the intensity of exercise as you feel yourself getting stronger and maintain a consistent exercise routine. This can contribute to improved mobility in the long term. However, you will also need to take certain medications to better manage Ankylosing Spondylitis. Some of the common medications used to reduce inflammation and pain from this condition are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs which are known as NSAIDs. The medications prescribed to you depend on the severity of the condition as well. If you are at the more severe end of ankylosing spondylitis, you will be prescribed biologic therapies and disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs.
It is important
To work with a rheumatologist to figure out the most effective medication regimen for your condition. After constant monitoring, your rheumatologist will be able to come up with the right medication regimen to control your systems in an optimal way. But there are some things you can do to improve the condition as well. In addition to exercise, there are some adjustments you can make to your lifestyle to manage the condition. You have to maintain good posture no matter what you are doing as this will ensure optimal spinal alignment. And there are certain accessories you can use such as ergonomic chairs and pillows to further improve your posture. Make sure not to be inactive for a long period of time as this can lead to more stiffness. You should also maintain a healthy weight as any excess weight can put more stress on your joints further causing your pain. Look at your diet as well to improve symptom management. You need to maintain a balanced diet that is low in inflammatory food. Make sure to include plenty of vegetables, fruits and omega-3 fatty acids in the diet.
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