WHAT IS ANKYLOSING SPONDYLITIS?1,2
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the spine but also joints, tendons and ligaments, causing debilitating pain and loss of mobility.
Affected Joints3
WHAT CAUSES AS?1,3
Inflammation of the entheses leads to proliferation of the cartilage and bone formation. Pain, swelling and tenderness can occur in multiple sites of the body.
WHO CAN GET AS?2,4
AS can affect anyone, although it’s more common in young men and most likely to start in the late teens and 20s. There is a strong association between AS and the gene HLA B27.
HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED?4
There is no specific test for AS, diagnosis involves a physical examination, blood tests (which may show inflammation) and x-rays or an MRI scan. Also, having the HLA-B27 gene can point towards the condition.
DIET4
No particular foods have been found to make AS either better or worse. However, it’s sensible to eat a balanced diet and to keep to a healthy weight.
REPEAT EACH OF THE FOLLOWING EXERCISES AT LEAST FIVE TIMES:
Subject to doctor recommendation.
SMOKING5,6
Smoking worsens AS, quitting
smoking is associated with
improvements in physical
mobility and quality of life.
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY5,6
Regular physical activity helps
lessen pain, fatigue and stiffness
of AS. Stretching is an important
part of an exercise regimen and
should be included to help
manage AS.
MANAGE STRESS5
Stress can worsen symptoms
like inflammation and chronic
pain. Finding ways to manage
stress can help people with AS
take an active role in managing
their health and their life.
References: 1. Ghasemi-rad M, Attaya H, Lesha E and coll. Ankylosing spondylitis: A state of the art factual backbone. World J Radiol 2015 September 28; 7(9): 236-252. | 2. National Ankylosing Spondylitis Society (NASS). Guidebook for patients. Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS). Guidebook answers and practical advice. October 2012. https://nass.co.uk/nass/en/exercise/exercise-for-your-as/ | 3. Spondylitis Association of America. Complications: how is a person affected? Available at: http://www.spondylitis.org/about/complications.aspx# | 4. Arthritis Research UK. Ankylosing spondylitis and related conditions. Available at: www.arthritisresearchuk.org
Disclaimer: The information reflected is not to be construed as medical advice. The HCP
should always be consulted first
(especially in regard to adopting an exercise
regime).
References: 1. Ghasemi-rad M, Attaya H, Lesha E and coll. Ankylosing spondylitis: A state of the art factual backbone. World J Radiol 2015 September 28; 7(9): 236-252. | 2. National Ankylosing Spondylitis Society (NASS). Guidebook for patients. Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS). Guidebook answers and practical advice. October 2012. [Last accessed: August 6, 2019] https://nass.co.uk/nass/en/exercise/exercise-for-your-as/ | 3. Spondylitis Association of America. Complications: how is a person affected? [Last accessed: August 6, 2019] Available at: http://www.spondylitis.org/about/complications.aspx# | 4. Arthritis Research UK. Ankylosing spondylitis and related conditions. [Last accessed: August 6, 2019] Available at: www.arthritisresearchuk.org | 5. What Can Help My Ankylosing Spondylitis? Lifestyle Changes [Internet] Ankylosingspondylitis.net [Last accessed: June 18, 2021]. Available at: https://ankylosingspondylitis.net/lifestyle-changes | 6. 6 tips for living well with ankylosing spondylitis [Internet] Mayo Clinic [Last accessed: June 21, 2021]. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ankylosing-spondylitis/in-depth/6-tips-for-living-well-with-ankylosing-spondylitis/art-20478753
Disclaimer: The information contained herein is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to constitute
medical advice or replace discussions with a healthcare provider. All decisions regarding patient care must be made
with a healthcare provider, considering the unique characteristics of the patient.
