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| Source: http://inhealth.cnn.com/easing-ankylosing-spondylitis/11-tips-for-managing-ankylosing-spondylitis/ |
Medication
plays an important role in treating ankylosing spondylitis (AS). But your
treatment plan should also include everyday measures that make your life
easier—and, in some cases, prevent your disease from progressing. Try these
tips to keep your condition under control.
1. See your health care provider regularly
AS is a
chronic condition, meaning you’ll cope with it for the rest of your life. It’s
important to see your health care provider at least once per year, even when
you’re feeling fine. That way, you can detect and treat any developing
complications early.
2. Get into hot water
You probably
notice that your back pain feels worst when you first wake up. Stepping into a
steamy tub or shower stall can relieve aches and loosen up stiff muscles and
joints.
3. Do your exercises
Some motions
may feel difficult because of your discomfort. But keeping your muscles and
joints moving improves your symptoms in the long term, and may even affect the
course of your disease. Ask your health care provider or physical therapist to
teach you which exercises are best. Your emphasis should be on moves that
extend your back and neck and mobilize your chest and upper body.
4. Stay active overall
Physical
activity preserves your mobility and keeps your heart and lungs healthy. Try
activities that involve a straight posture and stretch your upper body.
Walking, hiking, swimming, cross-country skiing, and tennis are all good
options. Those that involve continually flexing your spine, such as golfing and
long-distance cycling, may feel uncomfortable. Avoid sports that pose a risk
for accidents, including downhill skiing, football, or hockey.
5. Practice proper posture
Stay as
erect as possible when sitting or standing to help alleviate the forward bend
that often occurs as your condition progresses. To check your posture, stand
sideways in front of a full-length mirror. Imagine dropping a weighted string
from the top of your head to your feet. Stand so it passes straight
down—through your earlobe, shoulder, center of your hip, behind your kneecap,
and in front of your anklebone.
6. Work smarter
Professions
that involve bending, twisting, or stretching can be tough for people with AS.
Instead, choose a job in which you can alternate standing, sitting, and
walking. If you work at a desk or computer, make sure you take frequent breaks
throughout the day to do basic stretches and flexibility exercises. An inclined
or tilted table can help with reading in the proper position.
7. Sleep soundly
Posture
doesn’t just matter during the day. Take steps to adjust your body position at
night, too. Sleep on your back, lying at flat as possible. If you can get
comfortable enough, sleep without a pillow under your head to keep your neck
from flexing forward. Or use a pillow that is as flat or thin as possible.
Also, don’t place a pillow under your knees—this can shorten your muscles and
tendons.
8. Eat properly
Talk with
your health care provider about diet. Ask which foods are likely to make your
pain better or worse. Most health care providers recommend limiting red meat to
no more than two meals per week, because it may increase inflammation. Consume
plenty of calcium and vitamin D, which reduce your risk for the bone-thinning
disease osteoporosis.
9. Drive safely
A few simple
steps can make maneuvering a car safer and more comfortable. If you have
limited motion in your neck, consider installing wide-view side mirrors. A
small cushion behind your back can relieve aches. On long drives, stop every
hour or two to stretch. Always carry an emergency information card that
notifies medical personnel of your condition. And be sure to always wear a seat
belt.
10. Prevent falls
Falls pose a
greater risk if you have AS, because of your fragile backbones. To stay
upright, always wear supportive, skid-proof shoes. Hold the handrails when
going up and down stairs. Consider installing a shower stall instead of a
bathtub, and use a bath mat to prevent slipping. Keep floors in your home
well-lit and free of rugs and clutter.
11. Join the club
Membership
in an organization focused on your condition—such as the Spondylitis
Association of America—can go a long way toward improving your health and your
life. You’ll benefit from up-to-date information on treatment, as well as legal
and legislative support. You’ll also connect with others who face similar struggles.
Not only will you feel less alone, you’ll be able to share solutions.
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