Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a type of arthritis that causes inflammation in joints and ligaments in the spine. The severity and frequency of its symptoms vary from mild to severe to chronic. In many cases, as the condition progresses, it affects the person’s ability to move around. The condition can be managed with ankylosing spondylitis treatments and medications, but a few lifestyle adjustments can help reduce pain and improve range of motion.
Let us discuss a few healthy habits that individuals must incorporate into their daily lifestyle to help treat ankylosing spondylitis.
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Exercise and Stretching
Staying physically active is very helpful in treating ankylosing spondylitis (AS). According to the experts, people who engage in long-term low-impact exercises recover faster with AS. Long-term physical activities help strengthen muscles and increase flexibility. They also enhance the ability to move comfortably and decrease pain.
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Good Eating Practices
It has been observed that people with ankylosing spondylitis and a high BMI (body mass index) experience more symptoms. Obesity leads to various health issues, and AS is one of them. It also increases inflammation in the body, resulting in pain and discomfort. People with AS must maintain a healthy weight by incorporating healthy eating habits into their daily lives. A healthy weight reduces joint strain and helps with ankylosing spondylitis treatment.
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Stress Reduction
People with chronic pain associated with AS experience psychological distress. Chronic pain increases stress, which further increases the intensity of pain and gets caught in this vicious cycle. Incorporate stress management techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, mindfulness, and yoga, that help manage psychological distress.
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Quitting Smoking
Smoking is injurious to health in many ways. The nicotine makes the ankylosing spondylosis symptoms worse in several ways. It increases pain and inflammation, resulting in physical disability and an increased severity of the condition. If you smoke, quit it now. It will help enhance your physical functioning and increase your quality of life.
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Maintain Proper Posture
People who do not maintain proper posture while sitting or standing suffer from various spine issues. It also increases the severity of complications related to ankylosing spondylitis. In severe cases of AS, people may find it difficult to move or complete their daily tasks. It is essential to maintain proper posture to help reduce the severity of AS-related complications.
Follow these strategies to maintain good posture:
- People with AS should sleep with pillows under their knees or between their legs. At night, they should also sleep with a pillow beneath their heads to maintain a straight neck.
- If you have a sitting job, maintain good posture by using a chair that provides appropriate lower back support.
- While standing, bring your shoulder blades together to maintain a straight posture.
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Prioritize Quality Sleep
People with ankylosing spondylitis often complain about fatigue and sleep deterioration due to pain and discomfort. Consult your healthcare provider to get guidance on medication to get quality sleep.
Conclusion
Ankylosing Spondylitis is an autoimmune condition that can affect your life in many ways. Get assistance from the spine experts of renowned healthcare centers, like ANSSI Wellness, and get assured non-surgical ankylosing spondylitis treatment to enjoy the best quality of life.
