Ankylosing spondylitis refers to systemic inflammatory diseases in which the spine is predominantly affected.
The pathological process in the spine gradually leads to the fusion of individual vertebrae among themselves (ankylosing), the consequence of which is the development of restricted mobility of the spine. At the same time, the ligaments surrounding the spine ossify, causing the spine to lose mobility to a greater or lesser extent.
Complaints and clinical manifestations
- Back pain. Back pain is most pronounced in the early morning. A characteristic symptom of ankylosing spondylitis is stiffness in the morning. Both pain and stiffness gradually decrease during the day when movement begins. Pain may increase with prolonged immobility (sitting, lying down). In ankylosing spondylitis, pain usually first appears at a young age (20-40 years).
- Joint changes. In addition to back pain, ankylosing spondylitis is characterized by damage to the joints of the extremities (especially the hips and knees), which is manifested by painful limitation of mobility and swelling.
- Eye lesions. In 30% of cases there is some form of inflammation of the eyeball, the so-called uveitis or iridocyclitis – inflammation of the iris.
- Pain in the places of tendon attachment. In addition, a third of patients with ankylosing spondylitis have symptoms such as pain and swelling in the area of tendon attachment – enthesitis. The most common sites of attachment of the Achilles tendon to the heel bone are affected.
- Decreased mobility of the spine. In the final stages of the disease, spinal immobility gradually joins back pain. The pain syndrome in this case usually weakens and even completely stops.
Treatment of ankylosing spondylitis
Treatment of ankylosing spondylitis is carried out in several stages, so it requires a comprehensive approach and availability in the medical center of the necessary equipment for diagnosis and rehabilitation programs.
Once the diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis is confirmed, the specialist will select the means to relieve pain and control the inflammatory process. After a thorough analysis of the current condition, it will be necessary to develop a program to restore mobility of the spine and maintain it in a stable state.
Restoring spinal mobility is a complex task that requires not only the high professionalism of a team of specialists, but also the responsible attitude of the patient, as treatment of spondyloarthritis will take more than one month.
Treatment of ankylosing spondylitis may require:
- drug administration;
- an individualized program of regular physical exercise;
- acupuncture, massage;
- in severe, neglected forms – surgical intervention (replacement of the joint with an artificial one, endoprosthesis).
Prevention in ankylosing spondylitis
There are no specific preventive measures for ankylosing spondylitis. Since the exact causes of the disease have not yet been identified, the primary preventive measures are reduced to strengthening the muscular framework and recovery of the spine. You should try to avoid excessive physical exertion, infectious diseases. The main targets of this insidious disease are intervertebral joints, ligaments and tendons. The earlier the alarm is sounded and the correct action is taken, the better the effect will be.
- Therapeutic exercise
Do therapeutic exercise twice a day for 30 minutes, daily and regularly. Joints need movement, as only active muscles nourish cartilage and slow down the process of ossification. Exercises should be selected by a specialist, avoid squatting, lifting weights and watch your posture.
- Physiotherapy
Procedures outside the exacerbation help to prolong remission. The doctor selects the course depending on the patient’s condition.
- Posture and sleep
Watch your posture, avoid soft chairs and uncomfortable postures. Workspace should be organized with ergonomics in mind. Sleep should be sufficient, the mattress should be orthopedic, the pillow should be small, and the legs should be straight during sleep.
- Avoiding infections
Any infection, even a cold, can provoke an exacerbation. It is important to timely treat chronic foci (tonsillitis, dental caries, otitis media) and avoid hypothermia.
- Emotional comfort
Stress worsens the course of ankylosing spondylitis, so it is important to keep a positive attitude, learn relaxation techniques and avoid conflict.
- Physical activity
Consult your doctor when choosing sports. Swimming, pool activities, and ski walking are recommended. Running, contact sports, squats and barbell presses are forbidden. Exercise should be smooth, loads should be gradual and exercises should be safe.
- Avoidance of bad habits
Smoking and alcohol aggravate the course of the disease, so they should be excluded.
Maintaining health during the disease requires constant monitoring by a specialist and compliance with his recommendations. With a positive attitude, regular prevention and medical support, a good quality of life can be maintained.
- Diet
There is no special diet for ankylosing spondylitis. You should eat a balanced and nutritious diet, be sure to include in the daily menu a sufficient amount of protein, vegetables, fruits. It is also important to watch your weight: the higher the body weight, the greater the load on the joints and bones.
Some doctors believe that the Mediterranean diet can be useful for patients. According to it, it is mandatory to eat five servings of fruits and vegetables a day.
When following the Mediterranean diet, some products are not eaten at all or limit their amount in the diet. For example, you should eat less red and processed meat – no more than twice a week. Dairy products are replaced with low-fat and fermented products, such as Greek yogurt or low-fat cheese.
Conclusion
Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic disease that requires a comprehensive approach to treatment and lifestyle. Early diagnosis, timely therapy and compliance with the doctor’s recommendations help slow the progression of the disease and preserve the mobility of the spine. Regular therapeutic exercises, physical therapy, proper nutrition, avoidance of bad habits and stress management are key factors in maintaining quality of life. Despite the incurability of the disease, discipline and competent medical supervision allow patients to lead an active and fulfilling life.
