Dr. Vaishali Suri (P.T.)
Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Progressive Inflammatory Disease
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory arthritis primarily affecting the sacroiliac joints and spine. Over time, inflammation leads to new bone formation (syndesmophytes) that can progressively fuse the vertebrae — causing severe spinal stiffness and loss of mobility if not treated. AS predominantly affects young men (onset typically age 15–35) and has a significant impact on quality of life and work ability.
Why Exercise Is Non-Negotiable in AS
Exercise is the most important non-pharmacological treatment for AS — supported by the highest level of evidence in rheumatology guidelines. Without regular exercise: the inflammatory process causes progressive spinal stiffness, chest expansion decreases (ribs also fuse in severe AS), posture worsens into a characteristically stooped position, and disability accelerates. Daily physiotherapy exercise significantly slows progression and maintains function alongside biologic medication.
Physiotherapy Programme for AS
Spinal Extension and Mobility Exercises
Daily thoracic and lumbar extension exercises counteract the flexion deformity that AS drives. Lying prone (on the stomach) for 20–30 minutes daily, thoracic extension over a rolled towel, and specific lumbar mobilisation maintain spinal extension range.
Chest Expansion Exercises
Deep breathing exercises, arm elevation with breathing, and rib mobilisation maintain thoracic cage mobility and lung capacity — critical as AS can restrict breathing.
Hip and Peripheral Joint Mobility
Hip involvement is common in AS. Regular hip stretching, particularly hip flexor flexibility, prevents the flexion contractures that contribute to the AS stooped posture.
Hydrotherapy
Warm pool exercise is particularly effective for AS — buoyancy facilitates movement exercises that may be too painful on land, and warmth reduces morning stiffness.
Posture Training
Standing tall against a wall multiple times daily, postural awareness training, and ergonomic advice maintain the best possible posture as the disease progresses.
AS Physiotherapy in Faridabad
At Realign Rehab Clinic, NIT-5, Faridabad, we work with AS patients and their rheumatologists. Book your consultation today.