Don't do movements that cause pain Any exercise that requires you to twist your spine too much or that stresses your back and spine could cause problems, Arthritis Research UK notes. Carefully consider high-impact exercises, such as running, or jarring and twisting sports, such as tennis, squash, and racquetball.
Exercise is one of the best things you can do to help manage symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis, or AS. It can lessen pain and keep you more mobile and flexible. It also seems to help with symptoms related to posture, stiffness, fatigue, and breathing capacity.
Calcium-rich food and beverages
Calcium can help keep bones strong and healthy, something that is critical for people with ankylosing spondylitis. Consuming enough dairy can decrease risk of osteoporosis.
Whole grains are very good for heart. As the ankylosing spondylitis inflammation can affect the heart of the person, whole grains like quinoa, buckwheat, brown rice must be a part of one's diet. Having two to three litres of water per day is a must in the Ankylosing Spondylitis Diet.
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) can make your back stiff and achy. And it can feel even worse if you sit for a long time. Lower the seat of your desk chair so your thighs are at a right angle when you sit. It's best if you can plant your feet firmly on the floor.
The pain typically worsens during periods of rest or inactivity, which may cause some people to experience more pain during the middle of the night or after prolonged sitting. Usually, moving and exercise can help improve pain. Symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis vary from person to person.
Ankylosing Spondylitis and Your Diet
According to the Arthritis Foundation, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acid–rich foods like fatty fish may help reduce inflammation.
Almost all people with ankylosing spondylitis can expect to lead normal and productive lives. Despite the chronic nature of the illness, only a few people with ankylosing spondylitis will become severely disabled.
Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Eat lots of whole grains. Limit saturated fat and sugar, which are known for being inflammatory foods. Limit processed foods, which are often high in sodium and low in fiber and other nutrients.
Don't eat many high-fat, high-cholesterol foods.
These foods should be limited in any healthy diet. Saturated fat, found in animal products like red meat, poultry, and dairy, may promote inflammation and raise your heart disease risk.
Ankylosing spondylitis has no known specific cause, though genetic factors seem to be involved. In particular, people who have a gene called HLA-B27 are at a greatly increased risk of developing ankylosing spondylitis. However, only some people with the gene develop the condition.
Causes of AS Flares
In a study on AS flares, patients reported “the main perceived triggers of flare were stress and 'overdoing it,'” Dr. Appleyard says. “Keep in mind 'stress' may mean both physical stress, such as an illness, or emotional stress. Excess fatigue may also trigger a flare.”
Calcium is essential for healthy bones, and vitamin D is essential for your body to absorb calcium, making these two nutrients important for people with ankylosing spondylitis. That's because the condition increases your risk for low bone density, which makes bones fragile and more likely to break.
If you're still looking for answers to your AS symptoms, your doctor may talk with you about the latest treatment for ankylosing spondylitis, Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. JAK inhibitors earned the Food and Drug Administration's green light for ankylosing spondylitis in 2021.
Walking: Walking is a low impact workout that can be very beneficial for ankylosing spondylitis patients. This is the ideal way to ease the body into exercising.
Ginger. One of the effective home remedies in treating cervical spondylosis, ginger possesses anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce any inflammation in the neck and increase blood circulation. Drinking a glass of warm cow's milk by adding dry ginger and turmeric powder soothes this ailment effectively.
Some foods can trigger ankylosing spondylitis, so it's important to avoid certain foods to prevent inflammation. These include foods that are high in fat, salt, and sugar; processed foods, dairy products, alcohol, caffeine, artificial sweeteners, and others.