Spondylitis is a group of arthritis conditions that cause inflammation, stiffness, and pain in several joints and areas where your bone meets a joint.
Over time, spondylitis may
In severe cases, you may require an adaptive device like a wheelchair to help support your mobility.
One of the most important aspects of spondylitis management is exercise.
According to the United Kingdom’s National Health Service, exercise may help:
- relieve spinal stiffness and pain
- increase mobility and range of motion
- improve your posture
If you live with spondylitis, consider speaking with a physical therapist to get help developing an exercise program.
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Getting regular exercise is especially important if you use a wheelchair. Sitting in a wheelchair for long periods favors a flexed spine position. Exercise can help extend your spine and strengthen your back muscles.
An exercise program may include land-based seated exercises and stretches and water-based activities, known as hydrotherapy. Physical therapists could recommend suggestions for water wheelchairs.
Learn more about adaptive wheelchair workouts for people with spondylitis.
A healthcare professional may recommend other treatments to help reduce pain and stiffness and increase spinal mobility.
These treatments may include:
- nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
- steroid injections
- biologics
- immunomodulators, such as Janus kinase inhibitors
Depending on your condition, your doctor may also recommend contacting other specialists, such as rheumatologists, dermatologists, and gastroenterologists.
Learn more about treatments for spondylitis.