LIVING WITH ANKYLOSIS SPONDYLITIS

Madam Atobatele has been experiencing joint stiffness and low back pain for the past one month. She has used over the counter pain medication, yet she felt no relief. The pain was getting unbearable that she could barely stand up straight. She decided to visit the doctor.

‘Good morning, Mrs A. What brought you here today?’ The doctor asked.

‘Good morning, doctor. I have been having severe low back pain and joint pain for some time now. It is getting unbearable’

‘Alright. We will need to run some tests and carry out some diagnostic investigations’ The doctor scribbled somethings on a piece of paper lying on the table and handed it over to her 'Take this to the laboratory and run these tests. Once the results are out, we will know what to do from there on’

‘Alright doctor’ She took the paper and rose to her feet.

Few hours later, she came back with a sealed envelope and handed the envelope to the doctor.

‘Alright. Mrs A, from the result I have here, you have ankylosis spondylitis’.

‘What is that?’ she raised her eyebrows

‘Well, ankylosis spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the spine. It mostly managed with medications by our practice but with lifestyle modification and diet the results of even a permanent healing can be achieved.However, I will link you up with a health coach that will guide you on the lifestyle and diet aspect while we give you the necessary medications’

‘Alright doctor’Ankylosis spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the spine and large joints leading to lower back pain, joint stiffness, and fatigue. It has no specific cause; however, it can be hereditary. While it seems as though there are no cure, lifestyle and dietary modifications can play a crucial role in managing symptoms and improving quality of life even complete healing.

1.     Engage in regular physical exercise: One of the ways to manage ankylosis spondylitis is through regular physical exercise. It helps to support spinal flexibility and reduce stiffness. Exercises such as stretching, cycling, walking, and swimming help to minimize stress on the joints.

2.     Maintain proper posture: Keeping a proper posture helps to reduce the complications associated with ankylosis spondylitis. Use chairs, workstation, and car seats to support good posture with proper back support and seating alignment.

3.     Apply heat and cold therapy: Applying heat and cold therapy to the affected area helps to alleviate the pain and inflammation associated with ankylosis spondylitis. This loosens stiff muscles and joints promoting relaxation and flexibility. 

4.     Eat anti-inflammatory foods: Anti-inflammatory foods such as foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids like salmons; fruits and vegetables and whole grains as well as spices and herbs help to reduce inflammation associated with ankylosis spondylitis.

5.     Reduce intake of inflammatory foods: Foods that can worsen inflammation such as refined sugar, processed foods, red meat, and high-fat diary should be reduced to avoid inflammation and pain associated with ankylosis spondylitis.

6.     Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight puts added strain on the spine and joints, worsening ankylosis spondylitis symptoms. Maintain healthy weight through balanced diet and regular exercise to reduce the risk of flare-ups and improve mobility. 

Adopting these lifestyle and dietary modifications allow individuals with ankylosis spondylitis to live symptom -free life. 

NB We are bio individuals which is to say not all size fits all. Prioritizing yourself and your journey with the support and guidance of a health coach will further help in your progress and such a person would be able to get detailed information about themselves that could facilitate results.