Ankylosing Spondylitis: Symptoms, Causes & The Best Strategies for Managing It

drsuzbaxter
4 days ago
3 min read

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints, causing pain, stiffness, and potential fusion of the vertebrae over time. It is an autoimmune condition, meaning the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, leading to chronic inflammation.

While AS can’t be cured, the right exercise, mobility work, and lifestyle adjustments can significantly reduce symptoms, prevent long-term damage, and improve quality of life.

Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis

The symptoms of AS can range from mild to severe and often worsen over time. Common symptoms include:

✅ Chronic back pain & stiffness – Often worse in the morning or after inactivity.

✅ Pain in the hips, shoulders, or ribs – AS doesn’t just affect the spine.

✅ Reduced flexibility & mobility – Due to inflammation and potential spinal fusion.

✅ Fatigue – Chronic inflammation can drain energy levels.

✅ Eye inflammation (uveitis) – Pain, redness, and sensitivity to light.

✅ Difficulty breathing – If the ribcage becomes affected.

AS typically develops in early adulthood (late teens to 30s) and is more common in men, though it can affect anyone.

What Causes Ankylosing Spondylitis?

The exact cause of AS isn’t fully understood, but several factors play a role:

• Genetics – The HLA-B27 gene is strongly linked to AS, though not everyone with the gene develops it.

• Autoimmune response – The body mistakenly attacks its own joints.

• Environmental triggers – Infections and gut health may influence immune activity.

AS is not just a spinal condition—it’s a systemic inflammatory disease that can impact multiple areas of the body.

How to Manage Ankylosing Spondylitis

While there is no cure, the right management strategies can help slow progression and reduce pain.

1. The Role of Exercise & Mobility in AS

Movement is one of the most powerful tools for managing AS. The goal is to stay strong, mobile, and prevent stiffness without overloading inflamed joints.

🔹 Best types of exercise for AS:

✅ Mobility work & stretching – Keeps the spine flexible and reduces stiffness.

✅ Strength training – Helps maintain muscle mass and supports the joints.

✅ Low-impact cardio – Swimming, cycling, and walking help improve circulation and mobility.

✅ Postural training – Helps prevent spinal curvature.

🚫 What to avoid? High-impact activities that jar the spine (e.g., heavy running or contact sports) may worsen symptoms if not carefully managed.

2. Medical & Lifestyle Strategies

📌 Medication – Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), biologics, and DMARDs can help manage pain and inflammation.

📌 Anti-inflammatory diet – A diet rich in omega-3s, antioxidants, and fiber supports immune health and reduces inflammation.

📌 Gut health – Emerging research suggests a link between gut bacteria and autoimmune conditions like AS. Probiotics and gut-friendly foods may help.

📌 Heat & cold therapy – Heat relieves stiffness, while cold reduces inflammation.

📌 Stress management – Chronic stress can worsen symptoms, so breathwork, meditation, and relaxation techniques are essential.

What It’s Like to Live with AS: The Daily Reality

People with AS don’t just deal with pain—they also manage fatigue, stiffness, and uncertainty about how their symptoms will fluctuate.

• Mornings can be the hardest. Stiffness often takes 30+ minutes to loosen up.

• Sitting too long = more pain. Many have to adjust their work environments.

• Flare-ups can be unpredictable. Stress, diet, and even weather changes can worsen symptoms.

• Mental health is impacted. Chronic pain can lead to frustration, anxiety, and depression.

This is why a proactive approach—with the right mix of exercise, mobility, medication, and lifestyle changes—is crucial for long-term health.

Take Control of Your Health with AS

If you or someone you know has AS, the best thing you can do is stay proactive. The right exercise, nutrition, and functional medicine approach can help:

✅ Minimize pain & stiffness

✅ Improve mobility & posture

✅ Reduce long-term joint damage

✅ Support overall health & energy levels

AS doesn’t have to define your life. By staying active, informed, and working with the right professionals, you can manage your symptoms effectively and keep doing the things you love.