How to relieve the pain and stiffness in ankylosing spondylitis
Posted on 20. Jul, 2012 by Jennifer in Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing Spondylitis, also known as AS, is a type of arthritis disease of spine and joints. It is a chronic condition but pain relief is possible through treatments. In the early stage of AS, the lower back becomes inflamed and painful and eventually leads to discomfort as well as chronic pain. As the disease progresses, in most of the cases, it leads to abnormal ossification (bone formation) on the spine. AS most commonly occurs in young men than females and children. This disease is hereditary and typically occurs between the ages of 15-45.
What are the symptoms?
The major symptoms of AS include morning stiffness, fever, fatigue, weight loss, night wets, lower back pain, inflammation of sacroiliac joint, tenderness over inflammation area and loss of appetite. As mentioned above, the condition typically begins with intermittent pain in the lower back and eventually causes the vertebrae to fuse together. Other symptoms are enteritis (inflammation of digestive tract), eye inflammation, joint pain, heart problems, breathing difficulties, and shoulder or knee stiffness.
How is ankylosing spondylitis diagnosed?
At an early stage, AS is often hard to diagnose and pain is not always located in the lower back of the body. Children often experience pain in heels or knees while women may experience pain in the neck mostly. If you think you might have AS then talk to your doctor about diagnosis.
How to get ankylosing spondylitis pain relief?
Pain is often the first and the foremost bothersome symptom in AS. The following treatment modalities are often implied:
TNF inhibitors and NSAIDS
According to recent studies, TNF (tumor necrosis factor) plays a vital role in reducing the disease progression. Currently, it is considered an effective and advanced treatment for ankylosing spondylitis. While NSAIDs are considered the first line medication for the treatment of the first stage to treat stiffness and pain, they are not enough as the diseases progresses. Also, while the use of NSAIDs and analgesics is common, it is not uncommon to have serious side effects such as allergy, digestive tract bleeding and stomach irritation.
Most people, therefore, prefer to resort to natural remedies and strategies for getting ankylosing spondylitis pain relief such as:
Exercises for ankylosing spondylitis pain relief
Exercises are vital to combat long term AS pain. For many, it’s difficult to exercise regularly and frequently but once you set a regular activity schedule, it will improve your outlook and overall physical stamina. Similarly, trained physical therapist can be a valuable guide for AS exercise. Posture practice also helps avoiding stiffness of the spine.
Diet for ankylosing spondylitis pain relief
Adequate amount of calcium and vitamin D is required for AS patients because this disease leads to bone thinning. You should also avoid alcohol so that it would not weaken the bones. Daily usage of banana and yogurt reduces the intestinal attack which can be caused by AS. Yogurt helps balance microorganisms and banana provides food and energy to the body. It also produces a protective lining in the gut. Finally, avoid high starch foods such as cakes, grains, peanuts, chips, pizza, cookies, rice, pasta, corn, dried beans, root vegetables etc.
Herbal therapy for ankylosing spondylitis pain relief
Because of its natural, botanical ingredients, safety and known effectiveness as a potent remedy for bone and joint disease, you can also consider using an all-natural herbal supplement such as Provailen. Because of its credibility, efficacy and safety, Provailen is not considered as a hallmark herbal supplement for a variety of arthritis-related disorders including AS.
Conclusion
Always remember, when it comes to the severity and seriousness of AS, you’re not alone. Do remember to research the treatment options and discuss with your doctor. In Ankylosing Spondylitis severe cases, joint replacement surgery can be an option. Common treatment involves regular exercise, good posture, physical therapy and medication to help relax muscle and reduce pain of joints. To reduce pain, heat can also be applied to stiff joints. Trying out a safe and effective herbal therapy such as Provailen is always a safe and affordable option to get ankylosing spondylitis pain relief. In any case, you should get involved in your treatment and be proactive. Your doctor can find a treatment that’s best for you. Exercise regularly, develop support system, stay flexible, make life easier and choose your job wisely.
Creative License belongs to – http://www.flickr.com/photos/colindunn/4398689320/sizes/m/in/photostream/
