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 cause severe spinal stiffness and joint damage that could limit your mobility and lead to chronic pain.

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.

A 2019 research review found that an exercise program for spondylitis may help improve mobility, range of motion, cardiovascular fitness, and quality of life. It could also help decrease inflammation, pain, and stiffness.

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.

A healthcare professional may recommend other treatments to help reduce pain and stiffness and increase spinal mobility.

These treatments may include:

Depending on your condition, your doctor may also recommend contacting other specialists, such as rheumatologists, dermatologists, and gastroenterologists.

Learn more about treatments for spondylitis.