Ankylosing spondylitis massage
Spondylitis is characterized by inflammation of the spine.
The inflammation can lead to damage to the vertebrae of the spine. Sometimes this causes fusion (bones become fused together) of one vertebrae to another, whereby there is complete loss of mobility of the spine. Occasionally, this can cause loosening of the ligaments that maintain the normal positions of one vertebrae on another. This is a dangerous situation because if the vertebrae suddenly slip in relation to each other, it is possible to permanently injure the spinal cord in the neck. The aim of treatment is to reduce joint pain and to prevent, delay or correct any damage or deformities of the spine and other joints. To reduce pain, stiffness and inflammation, you may be given nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin and others) or naproxen (Aleve). These medications may help to control your pain so that you can continue normal activities and exercise as part of your treatment. If NSAIDs are not enough to control the pain, more powerful medications such as sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) or methotrexate (Folex, Methotrexate LPF, Rheumatrex) may be recommended. However, these medications may cause side effects, and you have to be monitored regularly while you are taking them. Some doctors prescribe newer medications, including leflunomide (Arava) and the injectable medications etanercept (Enbrel) and infliximab (Remicade). These drugs usually are prescribed for rheumatoid arthritis, but preliminary studies suggest they may be effective for ankylosing spondylitis as well. Treatment usually includes physical therapy and exercise. An exercise routine, developed by a physical therapist, probably will include range-of-motion and stretching exercises to help the spine remain flexible. Abdominal and back exercises can help you maintain good posture so you are less likely to stoop. Swimming is an especially good exercise because it may be easier to move stiff, painful areas in the water. Biking also tends to be a good exercise for people with ankylosing spondylitis. Avoid any activities that could put too much stress on your back. For example, jogging may cause back pain to become worse because jogging puts more pressure on spinal joints. Hot baths, heat and massage can help to relieve pain. If you can, sleep on your back on a firm mattress and use a small pillow or none at all. Because ankylosing spondylitis can affect the bones of the rib cage, your lung capacity can become restricted. Breathing exercises can help to maintain your lung capacity. If you smoke, quitting should be a priority. Even with the best treatment, some people will develop a fused spine, but most patients can still function. At some points, a back brace or other devices, such a corset, cane or joint splints, may be helpful. If other organs are involved, such as your heart or eye, you may have to see a specialist, and may need additional treatment and monitoring. For example, a person with ankylosing spondylitis may need a pacemaker if his or her heart is affected. Surgery is needed only if the disease has caused nerve damage in the spine or if joint damage is severe.
All clearance for therapy procedures in this patient should come from her doctor. Massage can be very helpful for patients with spondylitis who commonly have muscle spasm and loss of flexibility.
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