Introduction

If you're experiencing prolonged morning stiffness and back discomfort, it's crucial to consult a doctor as it could be an early sign of spondylitis.

Self-Care at Home

Here are some steps to help reduce pain and stiffness in individuals with ankylosing spondylitis:

• Maintain good posture to keep your spine aligned.
• Choose a firm mattress for sleeping.
• When sleeping on your stomach (prone position), avoid using a pillow.
• If sleeping on your back (supine position), use a thin pillow.
• Keep your legs straight while sleeping, without the support of a pillow.
• Avoid curling up when sleeping.
• When walking or sitting, strive to maintain a straight spine.
• Use chairs and workspaces designed to provide spinal support.

Regular exercise is a vital component of ankylosing spondylitis treatment. Exercises that strengthen the back and neck can help preserve proper posture. Aerobic exercises, like swimming, are highly beneficial as they enhance spinal flexibility and promote movement in the shoulder and hip joints. Taking a warm shower before exercise can alleviate joint pain and stiffness, making exercise more comfortable and less painful. Initiate exercise gradually and perform it when pain is minimal.

Other Therapies

Rehabilitation therapies play a significant role in ankylosing spondylitis treatment. Adhering to proper sleep and walking postures, combined with abdominal and back exercises, contributes to maintaining the correct posture and joint mobility.

While physical therapy may not halt the progression of ankylosing spondylitis, it can help alleviate symptoms.