5 Things To Avoid If You Have Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a type of inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine, causing stiffness and pain. While there is no known cure for AS, there are many things you can do to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. In this blog post, we will explore five things to avoid if you have Ankylosing Spondylitis.

Prolonged Sitting or Standing

Sitting or standing for prolonged periods can exacerbate the stiffness and pain associated with Ankylosing Spondylitis. To avoid aggravating your symptoms, take frequent breaks to stretch, walk around, or change positions. If you work a desk job, consider investing in an ergonomic chair or standing desk to help reduce the amount of time you spend sitting.

Make sure you take frequent breaks throughout the day and do some gentle stretches!

Poor Posture

Poor posture can worsen the pain and stiffness associated with Ankylosing Spondylitis. To maintain good posture, sit and stand up straight, keep your shoulders back and relaxed, and avoid slouching. Using a lumbar roll or cushion can also help support your lower back and improve your posture.

High-Impact Activities

High-impact activities like running, jumping, or contact sports can put excessive strain on your spine and joints, leading to increased pain and stiffness. If you have Ankylosing Spondylitis, you may want to avoid high-impact activities if they cause you pain, and instead focus on low-impact exercises like swimming, yoga, weight lifting or cycling.

Smoking

Smoking can worsen the symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis and increase the risk of complications. Research has shown that smoking can speed up the progression of the disease, increase inflammation, and decrease the effectiveness of treatments. If you have Ankylosing Spondylitis, it is important to quit smoking or avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.

Stress

Stress can worsen the symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis and trigger flare-ups. To reduce stress, try practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. Engaging in hobbies or activities you enjoy, spending time with loved ones, and getting adequate rest and sleep can also help reduce stress and improve your overall well-being.

Mediation can be very helpful to ease Ankylosing Spondylitis symptoms

In conclusion, if you have Ankylosing Spondylitis, it is important to avoid prolonged sitting or standing, maintain good posture, avoid high-impact activities, quit smoking or avoid exposure to secondhand smoke, and reduce stress. By making these lifestyle changes, you can help manage your symptoms, improve your quality of life, and reduce the risk of complications. It is also important to consult with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that meets your individual needs.

Xx Elina