Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis that affects the spine and sacroiliac joints. It causes inflammation in the spinal joints and can lead to a stiff and painful back. The condition is chronic, meaning it can last for years or even a lifetime. If left untreated, it can lead to the fusion of the spinal vertebrae, resulting in a rigid and immobile spine.

In this blog post, we'll explore the causes of spondylitis and the physiotherapy treatment options available to manage the condition.

Causes of Ankylosing Spondylitis

The exact cause of spondylitis is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. People with a family history of spondylitis are more likely to develop the condition. In addition, a gene is found in 90% of people with spondylitis, suggesting a genetic link.

Factors, such as infections, may also play a role in triggering the condition. The onset of ankylosing spondylitis usually occurs between the ages of 17 and 45.

Physiotherapy Treatment for Ankylosing Spondylitis

Physiotherapy can help to:

1. Improve flexibility and mobility: spondylitis can cause stiffness and immobility in the spine, leading to a limited range of motion. Physiotherapy can help to stretch and loosen tight muscles, increasing flexibility and mobility.
2. Relieve pain: Physiotherapy can help to reduce pain by using techniques such as heat therapy, massage, and manual therapy.
3. Strengthen muscles: Weak muscles can contribute to pain and instability in people with ankylosing spondylitis. Physiotherapy can help to strengthen the muscles around the affected joints, improving stability and reducing pain.
4. Improve posture: Poor posture can exacerbate pain and stiffness in people with ankylosing spondylitis. Physiotherapy can teach people with the condition how to maintain good posture, reducing the strain on the affected joints.
5. Improve cardiovascular fitness: spondylitis can limit physical activity, leading to decreased cardiovascular fitness. Physiotherapy can help to improve cardiovascular fitness through low-impact exercises such as swimming and cycling.

Treatment Goals

Spondylitis is a chronic condition that affects the spine and sacroiliac joints. While the exact cause is unknown, it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Physiotherapy is an effective treatment for managing the symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis, including improving flexibility and mobility, relieving pain, strengthening muscles, improving posture, and improving cardiovascular fitness. If you have ankylosing spondylitis, it's important to work with a physiotherapist to develop a treatment plan that's right for you.

Author

Mr Abdul Abdirahman

Physiotherapist

Moonee Ponds, Essendon, Brunswick, Ascot Vale

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