Ankylosing spondylitis is an inflammatory disease of joints in the spinal cord that causes the vertebrae to eventually fuse together, states MayoClinic.com. As a result of this fusing, the spinal cord develops a forward hunched posture and flexibility and range of motion is greatly decreased. Yoga and stretching exercises can help to alleviate the associated pain and increase flexibility and the range of movement in your back.
Vajra asana
Vajra asana is a yoga pose recommended by Movement Disorders Consulting and Yoga Therapy to improve flexibility in the joints of the vertebrae and reduce the associated pain and rigidity. Begin by kneeling then sitting back on your heels. Your legs should be underneath your buttocks. Keep your torso and neck in line and place both hands on the top of your thighs. With a forward and focused gaze, breath deeply for 15 to 30 seconds.
Pranayama
Pranayama is yogic breathing exercise recommended by House of Yoga. The forward hunch created by the fusing of the vertebrae affects the internal organs, thus this exercise is used to increase the movement of the ribs and internal organs. Begin by sitting upright with your legs folded. Slowly inhale and take a long, deep breathe. As you inhale, bring your stomach inward. Hold the breathe and count to five. Exhale gradually and relax your abdominal muscles. Perform this breathing exercise for 10 minutes.
Snake pose
Enter this pose by lying on your stomach with both hands behind your back. Interlock your fingers and remove your upper body from the floor by squeezing your shoulder blades. As you lift your shoulders, arms and breast bone, inhale and hold your breath in this position for five seconds. Lower you upper body to the floor and exhale. Repeat this exercise three to five times.
Fish pose
Begin this exercise by lying on your back. Keep both legs straight and bring your feet together. Slide both hands, palms down, underneath your buttocks. Press down on your elbows, inhale and arch your back upward. Drop your head back so that it remains on the floor. When you arch your back, your shoulders and upper torso should be off the floor. Do not move your hips or legs while in this position. Inhale and exhale deeply while you are in this position. Hold this position for 15 to 30 seconds.
