AS & PT: Proven Exercises for Pain Relief [2024]

Ankylosing spondylitis, a chronic inflammatory disorder, primarily affects the spine, leading to pain and stiffness. Physical therapy (PT) interventions, often recommended by healthcare professionals such as those at the Spondylitis Association of America (SAA), play a crucial role in managing its symptoms. Specific exercises, as detailed in the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI), are designed to improve posture and flexibility. Implementing targeted ankylosing spondylitis and physical therapy programs, which may include techniques developed at institutions like the Mayo Clinic, can significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals affected by this condition.

Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): A Comprehensive Overview

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is more than just a "bad back." It's a chronic, inflammatory disease primarily affecting the spine, though it can impact other joints as well.

Imagine your spine slowly fusing over time. That's essentially what AS can do. It leads to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, significantly impacting daily life.

This section provides a foundational understanding of AS, its symptoms, and how it relates to other similar conditions. Grasping these basics is critical to appreciating the role of physical therapy in managing this challenging disease.

Defining Ankylosing Spondylitis

AS is characterized by inflammation of the sacroiliac joints (where the spine connects to the pelvis) and the vertebrae. This inflammation can eventually lead to fusion of the spine.

This fusion restricts movement and causes chronic pain. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial to slow down the disease's progression and minimize long-term complications.

Common Symptoms and Disease Progression

The symptoms of AS vary from person to person. However, some common signs include:

• Chronic pain and stiffness in the lower back and hips, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
• Pain that gradually worsens over time.
• Fatigue and general malaise.
• Pain in other joints, such as the shoulders, knees, or ankles.
• Inflammation of the eyes (uveitis).

AS progression also varies. Some individuals experience mild symptoms that are easily managed. Others face more severe and debilitating symptoms.

Regular monitoring by a rheumatologist and a consistent physical therapy program can help manage the disease and its symptoms.

Axial Spondyloarthritis (axSpA) and Its Relationship to AS

Axial Spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is a broader term encompassing both AS and Non-Radiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA). Think of it as an umbrella term.

axSpA refers to inflammatory arthritis primarily affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints. AS is a specific type of axSpA where the inflammation has caused visible damage to the sacroiliac joints on X-rays.

Non-Radiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA) Explained

Non-Radiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA) is a form of axSpA where inflammation is present, but there is no definitive evidence of structural damage on X-rays.

Patients with nr-axSpA experience similar symptoms to those with AS. These include back pain, stiffness, and fatigue. The key difference lies in the absence of radiographic changes (damage visible on X-rays).

It's important to note that nr-axSpA can sometimes progress to AS over time. Therefore, regular monitoring and appropriate management are essential. Early and consistent physical therapy is critical for managing pain, maintaining mobility, and improving quality of life in both AS and nr-axSpA.

The Vital Role of Physical Therapy in AS Management

Having a clear understanding of Ankylosing Spondylitis is the first step. But knowing what to do about it is even more crucial. This is where physical therapy (PT) steps into the spotlight, becoming a vital partner in navigating the complexities of AS. Let's explore why PT is a cornerstone of AS management.

Physical Therapy: A Core Treatment Modality

Physical therapy isn't just an adjunct treatment; it's a core modality in managing AS. It provides a proactive approach to mitigating the disease's effects.

The primary goals of physical therapy in AS are threefold:

• Pain Reduction: Alleviating pain through targeted exercises and manual techniques.
• Improved Function: Enhancing mobility and range of motion to maintain daily activities.
• Enhanced Quality of Life: Empowering individuals to live fuller, more active lives despite their condition.

These goals aren't just aspirations. They are tangible outcomes achieved through consistent and skilled physical therapy intervention.

The Power of Early Intervention

Early intervention in AS is paramount. Starting physical therapy soon after diagnosis can significantly alter the disease trajectory.

The benefits are clear:

• Preventing Stiffness: Targeted exercises help maintain joint mobility and prevent the rigid fusion characteristic of AS.
• Maintaining Mobility: Early intervention keeps you moving, preventing the loss of function that can severely impact quality of life.
• Slowing Disease Progression: While PT cannot cure AS, proactive management can slow the advance of symptoms.

Early intervention isn't just about managing symptoms; it's about preserving your future mobility and independence.

Patient-Centered Care: Tailoring Treatment to You

AS affects each individual differently. Recognizing this, a patient-centered approach is critical in physical therapy.

This means:

• Individualized Treatment Plans: Your physical therapist designs a program specifically for your needs and abilities.
• Collaborative Goal Setting: You actively participate in defining your goals, ensuring the therapy aligns with your priorities.
• Ongoing Communication: Regular discussions with your therapist allow for adjustments and modifications as needed.

How to Engage in Patient-Centered Care

1. Express Your Concerns: Be open and honest about your pain levels, limitations, and goals.
2. Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to seek clarification on exercises, techniques, or any aspect of your treatment.
3. Provide Feedback: Let your therapist know what's working and what's not, enabling them to fine-tune your program.

By actively engaging in your care, you become a partner in your journey toward better health and well-being. Remember, physical therapy is not a passive process; it's an active collaboration toward a common goal: improving your life with AS.

Key Physical Therapy Techniques for Ankylosing Spondylitis

[The Vital Role of Physical Therapy in AS Management Having a clear understanding of Ankylosing Spondylitis is the first step. But knowing what to do about it is even more crucial. This is where physical therapy (PT) steps into the spotlight, becoming a vital partner in navigating the complexities of AS. Let's explore why PT is a cornerstone of AS m...]

Physical therapy employs a range of techniques tailored to address the specific challenges posed by Ankylosing Spondylitis. These techniques aim to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall function. The approaches are diverse, encompassing exercise therapy, manual therapy, and pain management strategies.

Exercise Therapy: The Foundation of Movement

Exercise therapy is the cornerstone of physical therapy for Ankylosing Spondylitis. Consistent and targeted exercises can significantly impact spinal flexibility, strength, and posture. The goal is to maintain as much range of motion as possible and prevent further stiffening of the spine.

Range of Motion (ROM) Exercises: Maintaining Spinal Flexibility

Range of motion exercises are designed to keep your spine as flexible as possible. These exercises help to counteract the natural tendency of AS to cause stiffness and fusion. Specific techniques target the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine, ensuring comprehensive mobility.

For the cervical spine, exercises may include gentle neck rotations, side bends, and forward and backward movements. These should be performed slowly and deliberately, avoiding any sudden or jerky motions.

Thoracic spine mobility can be improved with exercises like trunk rotations and side bending stretches. Using a foam roller to gently extend the thoracic spine can also be beneficial.

Lumbar spine flexibility can be enhanced with exercises such as pelvic tilts, knee-to-chest stretches, and cat-cow stretches. These movements help to maintain the natural curves of the lower back.

Strengthening Exercises: Building Core Stability

Strengthening exercises play a crucial role in supporting the spine and improving posture. Targeting the core muscles is paramount, as a strong core provides a stable base for spinal movement.

Exercises like planks, bridges, and abdominal crunches can help to strengthen the core muscles. These exercises should be performed with proper form to avoid injury.

In addition to the core, strengthening the hip, shoulder, and back muscles is also important. Exercises such as squats, lunges, rows, and shoulder blade squeezes can help to improve overall strength and stability.

Postural Exercises: Aligning the Spine

Postural exercises are designed to correct and maintain optimal spinal alignment. AS often leads to a forward stooped posture, so exercises that promote extension and upright positioning are vital.

Chin tucks, scapular retractions, and chest stretches can help to improve posture. These exercises focus on realigning the spine and strengthening the muscles that support proper alignment.

Practicing good body mechanics throughout the day is also essential. This includes maintaining a neutral spine while sitting, standing, and lifting objects.

Breathing Exercises: Expanding Lung Capacity

Breathing exercises are often overlooked but are critical for individuals with AS. The condition can restrict chest wall mobility, leading to reduced lung capacity.

Diaphragmatic breathing techniques, also known as belly breathing, can help to improve lung function and chest wall expansion. These techniques involve inhaling deeply through the nose, allowing the abdomen to rise, and exhaling slowly through the mouth.

Other breathing exercises may include rib cage stretches and thoracic mobility exercises, all aimed at maximizing lung capacity and improving overall respiratory function.

Hydrotherapy/Aquatic Therapy: Gentle Movement in Water

Hydrotherapy, or aquatic therapy, offers a unique advantage for individuals with AS. The buoyancy of water reduces joint stress, allowing for easier movement and exercise.

Water-based exercises can include range of motion exercises, strengthening exercises, and cardiovascular activities. The warmth of the water can also help to relax muscles and reduce pain.

Manual Therapy: Hands-On Relief

Manual therapy involves hands-on techniques performed by a physical therapist to improve joint mobility and reduce stiffness. These techniques can be particularly helpful in addressing areas of restricted movement in the spine and surrounding tissues.

Spinal mobilization techniques involve gentle, controlled movements to restore joint motion. Soft tissue release techniques focus on releasing tension in the muscles and fascia surrounding the spine. These techniques can help to reduce pain and improve flexibility.

Pain Management Techniques: Alleviating Discomfort

Pain management is an integral part of physical therapy for AS. Various modalities can be used to reduce pain and improve comfort.

Heat therapy, such as warm compresses or warm baths, can help to relax muscles and reduce pain. Cold therapy, such as ice packs, can help to reduce inflammation and numb painful areas.

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) units deliver mild electrical impulses to the skin, which can help to reduce pain signals. These units can be used at home under the guidance of a physical therapist.

Creating and Adhering to Your Home Exercise Program (HEP)

Key Physical Therapy Techniques for Ankylosing Spondylitis are essential, but these techniques need to be practiced regularly to have any effect. This is where a Home Exercise Program (HEP) becomes indispensable. Crafting and, crucially, adhering to a well-designed HEP is paramount for long-term management of Ankylosing Spondylitis. This section details how to create and stick with a program that fits your unique needs.

Importance of Adherence to Your HEP

The Home Exercise Program (HEP) serves as the cornerstone of long-term Ankylosing Spondylitis management. Think of it as your daily prescription for maintaining mobility and reducing pain. Its effectiveness hinges entirely on consistent adherence. Skipping days or performing exercises incorrectly diminishes its impact and can lead to setbacks in your progress.

Consistent adherence is vital because it:

• Maintains joint flexibility and range of motion.
• Strengthens muscles that support the spine and joints.
• Reduces pain and stiffness.
• Improves overall function and quality of life.
• Prevents further progression of the disease.

Ignoring your HEP is akin to ignoring your medication – the benefits simply won't materialize. Make it a non-negotiable part of your daily routine.

Components of a Comprehensive HEP

A comprehensive HEP is not a generic set of exercises. It must be meticulously tailored to your individual needs, abilities, and specific limitations.

A physical therapist will assess your condition to determine the most appropriate exercises. It should include the following key elements:

Tailoring Exercises to Individual Needs

• Consider your current fitness level: Begin with exercises that you can comfortably perform and gradually increase the intensity and duration as you get stronger.
• Target specific areas of concern: Focus on exercises that address your particular symptoms and areas of stiffness or pain.
• Incorporate variety: Include a mix of range of motion, strengthening, postural, and breathing exercises to address all aspects of AS.
• Listen to your body: Pay attention to any pain or discomfort and adjust the exercises accordingly.
• Consult your physical therapist: Regularly check in with your therapist to ensure that you are performing the exercises correctly and that the program is still appropriate for your needs.

Clear Instructions and Visual Aids

The effectiveness of your HEP depends on your ability to perform the exercises correctly. To ensure proper execution, your HEP should include:

• Detailed written instructions: Each exercise should be clearly described, with step-by-step instructions and illustrations (if available).
• Visual aids: Videos or diagrams can be incredibly helpful in demonstrating the correct form and technique.
• Dosage: A clear statement of the number of repetitions and sets.

Do not hesitate to ask your physical therapist for clarification if you are unsure about any aspect of your HEP. Proper form is crucial to prevent injuries and maximize benefits.

Monitoring Progress and Adjustments

Your HEP is not a static entity. It should be regularly assessed and modified to reflect your progress and changing needs.

Regularly Assessing Progress

• Track your symptoms: Keep a journal or use a tracking app to monitor your pain levels, stiffness, and overall function.
• Assess your range of motion: Periodically check your flexibility and range of motion in your spine and other affected joints.
• Note your strength: Pay attention to how easily you can perform strengthening exercises and whether you are able to increase the resistance.
• Reflect on your overall well-being: Consider how your HEP is affecting your energy levels, mood, and ability to participate in daily activities.

Adjusting the Program as Needed

Recognizing when adjustments are necessary is key to maintaining progress.

• Increased pain or stiffness: If you experience a significant increase in pain or stiffness, it may be a sign that you are doing too much or that your exercises need to be modified. Consult your physical therapist.
• Plateau in progress: If you are no longer seeing improvements in your symptoms or function, it may be time to increase the intensity or complexity of your exercises.
• New symptoms: If you develop new symptoms, such as pain in a different area, your HEP may need to be adjusted to address these new concerns.

Be proactive in communicating with your physical therapist about your progress and any challenges you are facing. Together, you can fine-tune your HEP to ensure that it remains effective and safe.

Empowering Yourself: Patient Education and Self-Management Strategies

Key Physical Therapy Techniques for Ankylosing Spondylitis are essential, but these techniques need to be practiced regularly to have any effect. This is where a Home Exercise Program (HEP) becomes indispensable. Crafting and, crucially, adhering to a well-designed HEP is paramount for long-term symptom management and improved quality of life. However, effective management extends beyond physical exercises alone. It requires a deeper understanding of Ankylosing Spondylitis and the implementation of proactive self-management strategies, essentially empowering individuals to take control of their condition.

The Foundation: Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis

Comprehensive patient education serves as the bedrock for effective AS management. It's simply not enough to passively receive treatment; individuals must actively understand the disease process, its potential progression, and the various treatment modalities available. This knowledge empowers patients to make informed decisions in collaboration with their healthcare team.

Key Components of Patient Education

• Disease Overview: A thorough explanation of AS, including its inflammatory nature, the specific joints it affects, and the potential for systemic involvement.

• Symptom Recognition: Detailed guidance on recognizing the common symptoms of AS, such as back pain, stiffness, fatigue, and eye inflammation (uveitis).

• Progression and Variability: Realistic information about the potential disease course, acknowledging that AS progression varies significantly from person to person.

• Treatment Options: Comprehensive information about all available treatment options, including physical therapy, medication (NSAIDs, biologics, DMARDs), and lifestyle modifications. Discuss the benefits, risks, and potential side effects of each option.

Building Independence: Self-Management Strategies

Beyond understanding the disease, effectively managing AS necessitates adopting proactive self-management strategies. These strategies address the daily challenges posed by AS and empower individuals to maintain their independence and well-being.

Pacing Activities: Finding the Balance

Pacing activities involves strategically planning and distributing daily tasks to avoid overexertion and symptom flare-ups. This doesn't mean avoiding activities altogether, but rather approaching them with mindful awareness of energy levels and potential limitations. Break down large tasks into smaller, manageable segments, and incorporate rest periods throughout the day.

Mastering Pain Management

Chronic pain is a hallmark of AS, and effective pain management is crucial for maintaining quality of life. In addition to prescribed medications, consider these strategies:

• Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat can help relax muscles and reduce stiffness, while cold can reduce inflammation and numb pain.

• Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness and meditation techniques can help reduce stress and improve pain tolerance.

• Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS): A TENS unit can provide temporary pain relief by stimulating nerves and blocking pain signals.

Combating Fatigue

Fatigue is another common and debilitating symptom of AS. Addressing fatigue requires a multifaceted approach:

• Prioritizing Sleep: Establish a regular sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine to improve sleep quality. Ensure a comfortable sleep environment.

• Nutrition: Adopt a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids.

• Hydration: Stay well-hydrated throughout the day to prevent dehydration-related fatigue.

Stress Reduction Techniques

Stress can exacerbate AS symptoms. Implementing stress-reduction techniques is an important part of self-management.

• Deep Breathing Exercises: Practice deep breathing exercises to calm the nervous system and reduce stress levels.

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• Yoga and Tai Chi: Engage in gentle exercises like yoga and tai chi, which promote relaxation and improve flexibility.

• Hobbies and Social Activities: Engage in enjoyable hobbies and social activities to reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

By embracing comprehensive patient education and actively implementing self-management strategies, individuals with AS can significantly improve their quality of life and live more fulfilling lives despite the challenges posed by this chronic condition.

Resources and Support: Navigating the Landscape of Ankylosing Spondylitis

Key Physical Therapy Techniques for Ankylosing Spondylitis are essential, but these techniques need to be practiced regularly to have any effect. This is where a Home Exercise Program (HEP) becomes indispensable. Crafting and, crucially, adhering to a well-designed HEP is paramount. However, knowing where to turn for guidance and support can be equally vital. This section explores the landscape of professional organizations and resources available to both physical therapists and individuals navigating the complexities of Ankylosing Spondylitis, offering a roadmap to enhance treatment, access valuable information, and build a strong support network.

The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA): A Cornerstone for Professionals

The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) serves as a pivotal resource for physical therapists treating individuals with AS. APTA provides a wealth of information, from clinical practice guidelines to continuing education opportunities, all designed to enhance the quality of care.

APTA Resources and Guidelines for Ankylosing Spondylitis Treatment

APTA offers evidence-based clinical practice guidelines that provide PTs with a framework for effective AS treatment. These guidelines are meticulously crafted based on the latest research and expert consensus.

They cover various aspects of AS management, including assessment techniques, exercise prescription, pain management strategies, and outcome measures.

PTs can leverage these guidelines to develop individualized treatment plans that address each patient's specific needs and goals.

Furthermore, APTA offers access to peer-reviewed research articles, online forums, and professional development courses, enabling PTs to stay informed about the most current advancements in the field.

Specialist Certifications: Elevating Expertise in AS Care

For PTs seeking to deepen their expertise in musculoskeletal and orthopedic conditions, APTA offers specialist certifications. Board certification demonstrates a commitment to advanced knowledge and clinical proficiency. While there isn’t a specific certification for AS, the Orthopedic Certified Specialist (OCS) certification is beneficial.

This esteemed certification is acquired via thorough testing and verification of the candidate's specialized knowledge in the field of orthopedic physical therapy.

This certification signifies a PT's dedication to providing the highest standard of care for patients with musculoskeletal disorders, including those with Ankylosing Spondylitis.

Beyond the APTA: Expanding Your Circle of Support

While APTA serves as a core resource, numerous other organizations and resources can further enrich the support system for both PTs and individuals with AS.

Spondylitis Association of America (SAA): A Patient-Focused Hub

The Spondylitis Association of America (SAA) is a leading patient advocacy organization. SAA provides educational materials, support groups, and online communities for individuals with AS and their families. Their website is a treasure trove of information.

It offers insights into AS symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and self-management strategies. SAA also hosts local and national events where patients can connect with others living with AS, share experiences, and build supportive relationships.

Arthritis Foundation: A Broader Perspective on Rheumatic Diseases

The Arthritis Foundation offers a broad spectrum of resources for individuals with various forms of arthritis, including AS. Their website features comprehensive information on AS, including disease management tips, exercise recommendations, and coping strategies.

The Arthritis Foundation also advocates for policies that support research and access to care for individuals with rheumatic diseases. Additionally, they offer community-based programs, such as exercise classes and support groups, to help patients manage their condition and improve their quality of life.

Online Communities and Forums: Connecting Virtually

In the digital age, online communities and forums can provide a valuable source of support and information. Websites such as CreakyJoints and various AS-specific Facebook groups offer platforms for patients to connect with each other, share experiences, ask questions, and receive encouragement.

These virtual communities can be particularly helpful for individuals who live in remote areas or have difficulty accessing in-person support groups. However, it’s crucial to verify any information found online with a qualified healthcare provider.

Medical Libraries and Databases: Accessing Scientific Literature

For PTs and researchers seeking to delve deeper into the scientific literature on AS, medical libraries and databases such as PubMed and Cochrane Library are invaluable resources. These databases provide access to a vast collection of peer-reviewed research articles, clinical trials, and systematic reviews related to AS.

Staying abreast of the latest research findings is essential for providing evidence-based care and contributing to the advancement of AS management.

Staying Informed: Recent Research and Evidence-Based Practice

Key Physical Therapy Techniques for Ankylosing Spondylitis are essential, but these techniques need to be practiced regularly to have any effect. This is where a Home Exercise Program (HEP) becomes indispensable. Crafting and, crucially, adhering to a well-designed HEP is paramount. Equally vital is staying abreast of the latest research and evidence-based practices that inform the most effective physical therapy interventions for AS.

The field of AS management is constantly evolving. New clinical trials and research studies emerge regularly, offering insights into exercise effectiveness, innovative treatment strategies, and advancements in understanding the disease itself.

It is the responsibility of both practitioners and patients to actively seek out and integrate this new knowledge to ensure optimal care and outcomes.

Navigating the Ever-Evolving Landscape of AS Research

Staying informed about the latest research is not merely a suggestion; it's a necessity for effective AS management. The insights gleaned from recent clinical trials can significantly impact treatment approaches and improve patient outcomes.

But how does one navigate this complex landscape of scientific literature?

Here's a breakdown of key strategies:

• Targeted Literature Searches: Utilize reputable databases like PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar to conduct focused searches using relevant keywords, such as "ankylosing spondylitis," "physical therapy," "exercise," and "clinical trials."

  Filtering results by publication date ensures you're accessing the most up-to-date information.

• Professional Journals and Publications: Regularly review leading journals in rheumatology, physical therapy, and rehabilitation medicine. Many journals offer online access and email alerts to keep you informed of newly published articles.

  Examples include Arthritis & Rheumatology, Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, and Physical Therapy.

• Conference Proceedings: Attend or review proceedings from major rheumatology and physical therapy conferences. These events often feature presentations of cutting-edge research findings that have not yet been published in journals.

  Organizations like the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) host prominent conferences.

Decoding Research Findings: A Critical Approach

Once you've located relevant research, it's crucial to critically evaluate the findings before incorporating them into your practice or self-management strategies.

Not all studies are created equal.

Consider the following factors:

• Study Design: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are generally considered the gold standard for evaluating treatment effectiveness.

  However, observational studies and systematic reviews can also provide valuable insights.

• Sample Size: Larger studies with diverse patient populations tend to yield more reliable results.

• Methodology: Assess the rigor of the study methodology, including the control group, blinding procedures, and outcome measures.

• Statistical Significance: Pay attention to statistical significance (p-values) but also consider the clinical significance of the findings. A statistically significant result may not always translate to a meaningful improvement in patient outcomes.

• Conflicts of Interest: Be aware of potential conflicts of interest, such as funding from pharmaceutical companies.

Resources for Staying Informed

Fortunately, numerous organizations and online resources can assist you in staying informed about AS research.

• The Spondylitis Association of America (SAA): The SAA provides a wealth of information on AS, including research updates, educational materials, and support resources. Their website (spondylitis.org) is a valuable hub for both patients and professionals.

• The American College of Rheumatology (ACR): The ACR offers clinical practice guidelines, research summaries, and educational programs for rheumatologists and other healthcare professionals. Their website (rheumatology.org) is a reliable source for evidence-based information.

• PubMed: PubMed (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov) is a free database of biomedical literature maintained by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). It's an invaluable tool for searching and accessing scientific articles.

• Cochrane Library: The Cochrane Library (cochranelibrary.com) contains systematic reviews of healthcare interventions, providing a synthesis of the best available evidence.

• Professional Organizations: Numerous professional organizations, such as the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), offer continuing education courses, journal publications, and online resources related to AS management.

Embracing Lifelong Learning

The journey of managing AS is a marathon, not a sprint. Staying informed about the latest research and evidence-based practices is an ongoing process.

Embrace a mindset of lifelong learning and actively seek out opportunities to expand your knowledge and refine your skills. By doing so, you can empower yourself or your patients to live fuller, more active lives despite the challenges of AS.

So, there you have it! Hopefully, this gives you a better understanding of how physical therapy can be a real game-changer when managing the pain and stiffness that comes with ankylosing spondylitis. Remember to always chat with your doctor or physical therapist before starting any new exercise routine, and here’s to finding some much-needed relief in 2024!