Treatment
There is no cure for ankylosing spondylitis. Treatment is aimed at providing education and relieving the symptoms.
Treatments may include:
Medications
Drug treatment may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to control pain and inflammation.
In recent years, a number of newer anti-inflammaory medications have been discovered.
Physical Therapy
Techniques to prevent progression and worsening of symptoms may include:
- Learning proper posture and the best positions for sleeping
-
Daily exercise, such as:
- Abdominal and back exercises (to decrease back stiffness and maintain good posture)
- Stretching exercises
- Swimming exercises
- Breathing exercises (in cases where the rib cage is affected)
Surgery
In severe cases, hip or joint replacement surgery may be needed to relieve pain and restore mobility. In some instances spinal surgery is needed to allow the person an upright posture.
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
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