Can you relate to this?

You wake up in the morning only to be welcomed by unexplained pain and stiffness in your lower back.

This is one of the most common symptoms of spondylitis. Other symptoms include fatigue, back pain and swelling in various parts of the body. At least 85% of people most of which are older people have spondylitis.

Let’s dig a bit deeper into this condition so you know what to do if you have the symptoms.

What Exactly is Spondylitis? 

Have you heard of arthritis? Arthritis is characterized by the inflammation of joints, tendons and ligaments. And spondylitis is the umbrella term for a group of such chronic arthritic diseases. 

There are various types of spondylitis. All of them cause the inflammation of joints, ligaments and tendons. As a result, the bones may fuse causing excessive growth of bones in the spine. 

What are the Symptoms? 

Swelling and redness are the two most common signs of spondylitis. These occur because of the pain and inflammation involved in this condition. 

Other signs of spondylitis are: 

What Causes Spondylitis? 

It is yet a mystery what exactly causes this condition. However, researchers have figured out different causes for different types of spondylitis. For instance, research suggests that ankylosing spondylitis may be genetic. Other possible causes may include bacterial infections. 

Infection in the genitals, bladder and intestine can cause reactive spondylitis. Inflammatory bowel diseases, on the other hand, may cause enteropathic arthritis. 

What are the Different Types of Spondylitis? 

Traditionally, there are six types of spondylitis, such as: 

  1. Ankylosing spondylitis (AS)

 Definition

It is a chronic joint inflammation that causes stiffness in joints and limited spinal movement. 

Symptoms

  1. Reactive arthritis (ReA)

Definition 

This is an amalgamation of three inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, urethritis and conjunctivitis. 

Symptoms 

  1. Psoriatic arthritis (PsA)

Definition: 

It is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects joints and is associated with an inflammatory skin condition psoriasis. 

Symptoms: 

  1. Enteropathic arthritis (EnA)

Definition 

This chronic inflammatory arthritis affects the spine, arms and legs. 

Symptoms 

Bloody diarrhea 

Pain in the abdomen 

Joint pain and swelling 

  1. Juvenile spondyloarthritis (JSpA)

Definition 

This affects the areas where tendons and ligaments attach to the bone. 

Symptoms 

  1. Undifferentiated spondyloarthritis (USpA)

Definition 

Doctors conclude this condition when the patient’s symptoms do not fall in a specific hematoid disorder. 

Symptoms 

Ankylosing spondylitis is the most common type of spondylitis among adults. Physiotherapy plays an integral role in treating this condition. Let’s check out how. 

Impact of Physiotherapy on Ankylosing Spondylitis 

It is possible to stay active even if you have AS. The solution is to get consistent physiotherapy sessions. Physiotherapy focuses on improving your flexibility and posture. The physiotherapist prescribes a treatment plan that reduces joint stiffness and pain.

Here’s how physiotherapy helps you manage ankylosing spondylitis: 

Physiotherapy involves various exercises such as strengthening exercises, flexibility exercises, deep breathing exercises, etc. These exercises improve your flexibility. You can perform daily tasks efficiently despite the condition. 

It is easier to heal when you get enough sleep. Thus, you should sleep for at least seven hours after exercising. 

The physiotherapist assesses your condition thoroughly to prepare a suitable treatment plan for your efficient recovery. With time, the treatment will reduce pain and stiffness in the joints. 

Thus, you shouldn’t hesitate before consulting with a physiotherapist if you have any symptoms of spondylitis. At Townline Physiotherapy, we have handpicked experienced and skilled professionals who help you manage the condition efficiently. 

@copyright 2022 by Townline Physiotherapy

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