How can my mother manage ankylosing spondylitis effectively?

Question

Hello doctor,

My mother has ankylosing spondylitis and is struggling with her mobility. We are worried about her long-term ability to move around independently. What treatments or physical therapies can help preserve her mobility, and is there a risk of permanent disability as the condition progresses?

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

I agree with you that ankylosing spondylitis (AS) (a chronic type of arthritis that causes inflammation in the spine and its joints, particularly where the spine meets the pelvis) can make life tough with pain, stiffness, and trouble moving around, especially as it affects the spine and joints. The good news is that there are ways to manage it and help your mom keep her mobility as long as possible.

Medications like painkillers, biologics (medications isolated from a variety of natural sources like humans, animals, or microorganisms), and DMARDs (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs) can help her with proper consultation with a rheumatologist (inflammatory specialist) in person.
Physical therapy can also help her, including stretching, strength training, posture workouts, and other activities like swimming or water therapy, which are easy on joints.

Kindly consult a specialist, talk to them, and take medications with their consent.

Other tips include:

Yoga and swimming.
Home set up with ergonomic tools or furniture to make daily tasks easier.

Complications like permanent damage of joints or spinal fusion can occur if she does not get treatment. With proper treatments, motivation, and activities, she can move better and be independent.

I hope this information will help you.

Kindly revert in case of queries.

Thank you.