Arthritis prevention series: Are you beginning to stoop?

Physical therapy and active, low impact exercise help considerably in the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis because they can prevent or slow development of a stooped posture which is a characteristic of many ankylosing spondylitis patients, as well as maintain movement and flexibility in affected joints.

Physical therapy generally will focus on promoting good posture, stretching to achieve greater flexibility, as well as strengthening exercises to support the spine. Deep-breathing exercises can also help patients focus their energy and increase lung capacity. Click HERE to see a video on how arthritis impacts the spine and your health!
In addition to participating in physical therapy, some patients find relief from special support devices. Although they do not help in treating the disease, they may help maintain the posture or position achieved through physical therapy. These include:

• Lumbar supports (e.g., lumbar support pillows)
• Back braces
• Support mattresses or zero-gravity chairs

Exercise can be difficult for ankylosing spondylitis patients when they are dealing with pain and changes to their posture. But you do not have to go it alone. Our team at AHP can get you on the path to being pain-free quickly and then provide you with at-home instructions to keep you on the right path. Remember, once the pain is under control, it is important to remain active and exercise. Even moderate exercise can help patients maintain a healthy weight so the joints are not subjected to unnecessary stress. Physical activity and light stretching improve the flexibility needed to lessen pain. If you or someone you love is in pain, please call us to set up a no cost consultation with Melissa Goldring, RPT - 203.847.4477.
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About AHP
Since 1990, Advanced Health Professionals [AHP] has helped thousands of patients recover from pain and injury. AHP is Norwalk and Fairfield County’s leading provider of Physical Therapy, Chiropractic, Acupuncture and Massage services. We specialize in sports injuries, auto accident injuries, worker’s compensation, work injury, sport injury, auto accident injury, massage therapy, post-surgical, pre-surgical, back pain, hip pain, knee pain, joint pain, shoulder pain, elbow pain, wrist pain, rehab, neck pain, whiplash injury, rehabilitation - please call us for an immediate appointment. Our office is based in Norwalk and serves the surrounding areas of Fairfield County, Westchester County and other suburbs of New York City.

[Some of this article content was provided by Judith Frank, M.D. from Arthritis-Health.com]