Ankylosing Spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory condition that mainly impacts the spine and sacroiliac joints, often causing long-term pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Health experts say early diagnosis and proper management are essential to prevent complications such as spinal fusion, deformity, and fractures.
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According to Dr Shrikant Dalal, maintaining a regular exercise routine can significantly improve mobility and reduce stiffness in patients living with the condition. He recommends daily stretching, spinal extension exercises, breathing exercises, and physiotherapy to maintain posture and lung capacity.
Low-impact physical activities such as Swimming, Yoga, and walking are considered beneficial because they help improve flexibility without putting excess strain on joints.
The expert also stressed the importance of following prescribed treatment plans, including anti-inflammatory medicines, disease-modifying drugs, and biologic therapies depending on the severity of symptoms. Patients experiencing severe spinal deformity or nerve-related complications are advised to consult spine specialists, as minimally invasive surgical options are now available for advanced cases.
Lifestyle habits also play a major role in symptom management. Avoiding prolonged sitting, taking movement breaks every 30–45 minutes during work hours, and maintaining healthy sleep posture using a firm mattress and minimal pillows may help reduce discomfort.
Doctors also warn that associated conditions such as uveitis, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease can occur alongside Ankylosing Spondylitis and should not be ignored. Experts believe a combination of medical treatment, physical activity, and lifestyle adjustments can help patients manage the condition more effectively and maintain a better quality of life.