Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis that affects the spine, causing some vertebrae to painfully fuse together. It can cause pain and stiffness in the neck, back, and other parts of the body. There is no known cure for ankylosing spondylitis, but there are many things a pain management doctor can do to help prevent it from developing.
If you already have the condition, there are some ways to navigate the symptoms. Here are some of the best ways to protect yourself from contracting ankylosing spondylitis.
1. Get Regular Exercise
Exercise is one of the best ways to prevent ankylosing spondylitis. It helps keep your joints and muscles healthy and strong. It also helps improve your flexibility, which can reduce pain and stiffness.
Getting regular exercise also helps you maintain a healthy weight. This is important because carrying extra weight can put additional stress on your joints, which can make pain and stiffness worse.
2. Quit Smoking
Smoking is a known risk factor for ankylosing spondylitis. Smokers tend to have higher levels of inflammatory proteins, called cytokines, in their lungs. Cytokines are associated with painful joint inflammation, especially in the spine. Quit smoking to reduce your risk of developing the condition, or to reduce pain and stiffness if you already have the condition.
If you smoke, a pain management doctor can help you quit. There are many different programs and medications available that are designed to help you make long-term changes in your habits.
3. Eat a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is essential for overall health. It can also help reduce the risks of developing ankylosing spondylitis. Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce inflammation throughout the body. Inflammation is a known trigger for ankylosing spondylitis. By reducing inflammation, you can help reduce your risk of developing the condition.
A nutritionist can help you develop a healthy diet plan that is appropriate for your lifestyle. They may also recommend specific foods and supplements that can reduce inflammation.
4. Get Enough Sleep
Getting enough sleep helps reduce the risk of developing ankylosing spondylitis. Sleep allows the body repair and heal itself on a regular basis, which is why consistent, deep sleep is an essential preventative measure.
If you have trouble sleeping, consult with your doctor about potential medications, supplements, or treatments that could help you get the rest you need.
5. Reduce Stress
Stress can trigger a flare-up of ankylosing spondylitis. It can also make the symptoms worse. Reducing stress can help you keep the symptoms under control.
There are many different ways to reduce stress. Exercise, relaxation techniques, and counseling can all help reduce stress levels. Your doctor can help you find some of the best way to personally reduce stress.
6. Avoid Alcohol
Drinking too much alcohol can lead to a loss of bone material. This is a predisposing factor for developing ankylosing spondylitis. It is important to drink alcohol in moderation or to avoid it altogether if you are at risk.
If you drink alcohol, there are many things you can do to help keep your bones healthy. Taking calcium and vitamin D supplements can help.
7. Wear Good Shoes
Trips and falls are common triggers for ankylosing spondylitis. They can cause pain and stiffness in the joints, or even dangerous injuries. Wearing comfortable shoes with good traction can help prevent falls.
There are many different types of shoes available that are designed to increase mobility and balance. Your doctor can help you find the best type of shoe for you. They can also recommend other ways to help prevent falls, such as using a cane or walker.
8. Stay Current on Vaccinations
Infection is known to trigger ankylosing spondylitis. The flu shot can help prevent infection, so it is important to get the flu shot every year. Be sure to stay current on all other vaccinations to prevent the risk of disease and infections that could cause ankylosing spondylitis.
Your doctor can give you the flu shot. You can also get it at many pharmacies and other locations.
How a Pain Management Doctor Can Help
If you are at risk for ankylosing spondylitis, it is important to talk to your pain management doctor. They can help you develop a plan to prevent the condition. They can also help you manage the symptoms if you already have the condition.
Ankylosing spondylitis is a serious condition that can cause pain, stiffness, and disability. By following the tips above, you can reduce your risk of developing or suffering from the condition.
