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Ankylosing spondylitis Q&As

Published by Bupa's health information team, February 2009.

Answers to questions about ankylosing spondylitis

This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email.

 

How much exercise should I try to do?

Exercise is crucial for anyone with ankylosing spondylitis. After getting some initial guidance from a physiotherapist, try to do some exercises and stretching every day.

Explanation

Exercise is one of the most important things you can do if you have ankylosing spondylitis. If you are diagnosed with the condition, it's important that you get the advice of a physiotherapist. He or she can help you to set up a daily routine of exercises. Your routine is likely to include exercises and stretches designed to keep your muscles strong and which increase the range of movements in your joints, particularly your spine and hips. The routine will also help with your posture. Doing even a small amount of exercise and stretching every day, along with taking your medication, can greatly help your condition. It's therefore very important to persevere with your exercises, under your physiotherapist's guidance, even if they are a little difficult at first.

Swimming is a great form of exercise if you have ankylosing spondylitis, as your muscles and joints are exercised while they are supported by the water. Your physiotherapist can recommend swimming strokes that place the least strain on the neck or other painful joints.

Cardiovascular exercise that gets you out of breath can help keep your chest flexible. Your physiotherapist is likely to also recommend other breathing-based exercises to help your condition.

Your physiotherapist may recommend that you don't do contact sports, such as rugby, and to be careful if you do high impact sports, such as tennis, basketball and step aerobics. Always wear trainers when taking part in sports or aerobic exercise to help protect your joints.

If you have ankylosing spondylitis, talk to your doctor and ideally get the advice of a physiotherapist before starting any form of exercise.

Further information

Sources

  • Ankylosing spondylitis. Clinical Knowledge Summaries. http://cks.library.nhs.uk, accessed January 2008
  • Ankylosing spondylitis. Arthritis Research Campaign. November 2005. www.arc.org.uk
  • A positive response to ankylosing spondylitis - guidebook for patients. National Ankylosing Spondylitis Society. March 2007. www.nass.co.uk
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Can I do anything to make driving easier?

Yes. Although driving for long periods of time can be difficult if you have ankylosing spondylitis, there are things you can do to help.

Explanation

If you have ankylosing spondylitis, you may find that driving can be painful and increases stiffness. If you are on a long journey, try to take regular breaks to stretch out. If you have problems turning your head when reversing, wide rear-view mirrors can help. Extra mirrors can also be used on the windscreen and dashboard. A good head support can help to protect your neck as even a minor jolt while driving can be painful if your neck is affected by the condition. Your local car accessory shop should be able to help.

If your symptoms are severe, the National Ankylosing Spondylitis Society recommends that you inform the DVLA and your car insurance company.

Further information

Sources

  • Ankylosing spondylitis. Clinical Knowledge Summary. http://cks.library.nhs.uk, accessed January 2008
  • A Positive Response to Ankylosing Spondylitis - Guidebook for Patients. National Ankylosing Spondylitis Society. March 2007. www.nass.co.uk
  • Ankylosing spondylitis - an information booklet. Arthritis Research Campaign. November 2005. www.arc.org.uk
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Do men and women get the same symptoms?

There can be a different pattern to ankylosing spondylitis in men and women.

Explanation

Nearly three times as many men are affected by ankylosing spondylitis as women. If you are a man with the condition, you are likely to be affected in your spine and pelvis. You may also find that you are affected in your chest wall, hips, shoulders and feet.

Women with ankylosing spondylitis are less likely to be severely affected in their spines than in men. You may also find that your pelvis, hips knees, wrists and ankles are affected. The condition is usually milder in women.

Further information

Sources

  • A positive response to ankylosing spondylitis - guidebook for patients. National Ankylosing Spondylitis Society. March 2007. www.nass.co.uk
  • Ankylosing spondylitis. Department of Work and Pensions. www.dwp.gov.uk, accessed March 2008
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How will my ankylosing spondylitis progress?

Ankylosing spondylitis varies between people in the way it progresses. You can do things to prevent the condition from becoming too serious.

Explanation

It's difficult to predict exactly how your ankylosing spondylitis will develop. There will be times when pain and stiffness will flare up. Over time your lower back can become stiff, and your upper back and neck may also be affected. Following a regular exercise programme can help to relieve your symptoms.

Further information

Sources

  • Ankylosing spondylitis - an information booklet. Arthritis Research Campaign. November 2005. www.arc.org.uk
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Related topics

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This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.

Publication date: February 2009

 

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