Ankylosing Spondylitis Physiotherapy in Indirapuram

How it differs from ordinary back pain

Mechanical back pain usually gets worse with activity and better with rest. Inflammatory back pain from ankylosing spondylitis does the opposite. It's typically worst in the second half of the night and first thing in the morning, with stiffness lasting well over half an hour, and it improves with movement.

It tends to start before the age of 40, often in the twenties. If that pattern sounds familiar and you haven't been assessed by a rheumatologist, that's the first step. Modern medication, including biologic drugs, has changed the outlook considerably.

Why exercise is part of treatment

Over years, uncontrolled inflammation can lead to new bone formation that stiffens and eventually fuses segments of the spine. The posture that results is a forward stoop that makes it hard to look straight ahead. Exercise can't stop inflammation, but it strongly influences the position in which the spine stiffens and how much movement you keep.

A good programme covers spinal extension and rotation, hip mobility, chest expansion and deep breathing, and general strength and fitness. It works best done daily, briefly, rather than once a week at length.

What we focus on

We measure spinal mobility, chest expansion and posture so progress can be tracked objectively. Then we build a home programme you can realistically do in 15 to 20 minutes, with clinic sessions to progress it and handle flares.

• Extension-focused exercise to counter the forward stoop
• Rib cage mobility and breathing work
• Hip range of motion, since hips are often involved
• Strength and aerobic fitness for overall health

Heat helps with morning stiffness. Forceful spinal manipulation is avoided because spinal bone can become brittle in longstanding disease.

Exercises often used for Ankylosing Spondylitis

These are exercises our physiotherapists commonly include. Which ones suit you, how many and in what order depends on your assessment and stage of recovery.

All back and spine exercises

Frequently asked questions