Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammation of the spinal joints (vertebrae) that can lead to severe, chronic pain and discomfort. Over the time, vertebrae may grow together and the spine becomes rigid.
Exact cause of ankylosing spondylitis is still unknown, but we do know that genetics have the most important role.
Ankylosing Spondylitis Symptoms
The first ankylosing spondylitis symptoms include back pain and stiffness.
These problems usually start in late adolescence or early adulthood.
As we already said Ankylosing spondylitis can cause a fusion of the spinal joints (syndesmophytes).
Fusion that affect bones of the neck, back, or hips may limit one’s ability to do routine activities.
Fusion of the ribs to the spine or breastbone may decrease one’s ability to expand chest when taking a deep breath.
Ankylosing Spondylitis Treatment
There are many different treatments available, including exercises and drugs. The aim of ankylosing spondylitis treatment is to ease pain and stiffness, to keep your spine as flexible as possible and to prevent spinal deformity.
Physical therapy can provide various benefits, from pain relief to better physical strength and flexibility. Physical therapist to provide you with specific exercises planed for your needs. Exercises should become a routine part of life. If possible, they should be done every day.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin are the most commonly used drugs for ankylosing spondylitis treatment. These medications may cause diarrhea, ulcers and stomach bleeding.
Disease modifying anitrheumatic drugs such as methotrexate can be taken if NSAIDs alone are not sufficient to decrease the inflammation, stiffness, and pain. They can cause stomach bleeding, bone-marrow suppression, liver damage, injury to the retina of the eye.
Natural remedies for arthritis have been proven to help people with ankylosing spondylitis. Some relatively new supplements like Provailen have been researched and proven to have positive effects in ankylosing spondylitis treatment.
Artificial joint replacement surgery. Most people with ankylosing spondylitis don’t need surgery. Still, it may be a treatment option for some people with advanced joint disease. Doctor may recommend surgery for ankylosing spondylitis patients with severe pain or when joint is so damaged that it needs to be replaced.
Natural remedies for arthritis:
spondylitis
