Hi there! If you or someone you know has been struggling with persistent back pain and stiffness, you might have come across the term Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS). Today, we’re diving into what AS is and how manual therapy can play a role in managing this condition.
What is Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine, although other joints can also be involved. It causes inflammation of the spinal joints (vertebrae), leading to chronic pain and stiffness. Over time, this inflammation can result in new bone formation, causing sections of the spine to fuse together. This fusion can significantly impact mobility and overall quality of life.
Manual Therapy and Ankylosing Spondylitis: What You Should Know
Research and clinical practice suggest that manual therapy can provide benefits for individuals with AS. However, because AS is a complex condition, manual therapy should be approached carefully and used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Clinical Findings on Manual Therapy for AS
1. Pain Management: Studies indicate that certain manual therapy techniques, such as gentle mobilization, may help alleviate pain and improve comfort for some patients.
2. Functional Improvement: Some individuals experience better spinal mobility and overall function with properly guided manual therapy.
3. Personalized Approaches: AS affects everyone differently, making it essential to tailor treatment to each individual’s needs, taking into account the stage of the disease and any potential contraindications.
Recommendations for Safe and Effective Treatment
• Collaborative Care: It’s crucial to work with a multidisciplinary team, including rheumatologists, physical therapists, and manual therapists, to ensure a well-rounded approach to treatment.
• Regular Monitoring: Because AS can progress over time, regular assessments are important to adjust therapy plans accordingly.
• Exercise Integration: Combining manual therapy with physical exercises aimed at improving flexibility and strength can enhance treatment outcomes.
Final Thoughts
While manual therapy can offer relief and functional benefits for some individuals with ankylosing spondylitis, it should always be used with caution and as part of a holistic treatment plan. If you have AS and are considering manual therapy, consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best approach for your specific condition.
Have you tried manual therapy for AS? Share your experiences in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!
External Resource about ankylosing spondylitis
Some possible exercise videos
( These exercises seem simple and safe to me if done according to the instructions. However this is at the user`s own risk)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-_Ud92aLTco
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WCJ3JYHYqdQ
For younger population
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jp4Ynxc0cEo
References (for further reading)
1.Burhan Fatih Kocyigit, Zhaxybek Sagtaganov, Yessirkepov, M. and Ahmet Akyol (2022). Assessment of complementary and alternative medicine methods in the management of ankylosing spondylitis, rheumatoid arthritis, and fibromyalgia syndrome. Rheumatology International, 43(4), pp.617–625. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s00296-022-05267-1.
1. NHS (2019). Overview- Ankylosing spondylitis. [online] NHS. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Ankylosing-spondylitis/.
2. Seiler, M., Vermeylen, B., Poortmans, B., Feipel, V. and Dugailly, P.-M. (2020). Effects of non-manipulative osteopathic management in addition to physical therapy and rehabilitation on clinical outcomes of ankylosing spondylitis patients: A preliminary randomized clinical trial. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 24(4), pp.51–56. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbmt.2020.06.028