Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic and degenerative bone disease that affects the spinal and pelvic joints. It is similar to rheumatoid arthritis and with time, it becomes very painful. With AS, joints between the vertebrae and in the pelvis become stiff and immobile. This is caused by ligaments that grow across the joint and attach to each bone. Ankylosing spondylitis is a progressive disease with symptoms that will continue to get worse as the disease advances.
Exercise
Mild to moderate exercise to maintain flexibility may be extremely useful during the first stages ankylosing spondylitis. Stretching, swimming and other low-impact activities can help to keep the spine and pelvis flexible. Exercise increases blood flow and strengthens the muscles around the affected joints. Maintaining movement as the disease progresses may help to alleviate the pain and inflammation associated with AS.
Physical Therapy/ROM
As ankylosing spondylitis progresses and movement becomes more difficult, a physical therapist may be needed to assist with certain exercises. Range of motion exercise may be needed to help the joints retain as much mobility as possible. Physical therapy may include stretching exercise, whirlpools and saunas, and other small pieces of exercise equipment.
Massage
Massage therapy works to strengthen the muscles that surround the affected area. It increases circulation and helps bring needed oxygen to the damaged tissues. A professional massage therapist will be able to determine what areas should be worked on and what areas should be avoided. Depending on the severity of the disease, massage can also help to reduce inflammation and relieve pain near the joints.
Yoga
Yoga combines breathing, meditation and stretching to form a bodywork technique that helps to relieve pain and discomfort. Yoga can also foster balance and well-being. Working with a trained yoga instructor, a program can be created for each person based on the individual's needs. Yoga helps to move the body and mind out of the stress response system and into relaxation mode. When the body begins to relax, muscles loosen and less stress is placed on the joints.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture has been used by arthritis patients with modest results. Hair-thin needles are inserted at certain points along meridians in the body. Inserting needles in these specific places releases endorphins into the bloodstream. Endorphins are similar to morphine in that they act as a local anesthetic. It is doubtful that acupuncture will improve function or mobility, but it has been proven as an effective pain reliever for short periods of time, according to the researchers at the Ankylosing Spondylitis Research Center.
