Ankylosing spondylitis is a form of arthritis that causes chronic spine inflammation resulting in pain and stiffness in the spine. Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a lifelong condition that inflames the sacroiliac joints located between the base of the spine and pelvis. This type of arthritis often spreads to joints between the vertebrae, and the bones that make up the spinal column and spreads up to the neck or damages joints in other parts of the body resulting in a condition known as spondylitis. Ankylosing spondylitis treatment can help the person ease pain and keep the back strong. Let’s delve into them.
Treatment of ankylosing spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis treatment aims to reduce joint damage, stiffness and prevent long-term complications. Treatments include:
- Doing regular physical activity can slow down the progression of the disease. The pain may worsen if the person is inactive. A little movement can help to lessen pain. So it is advisable to seek help from your doctor for safer exercises.
- The use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and naproxen can ease pain and reduce inflammation.
- The use of disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) such as sulfasalazine and methotrexate reduce pain and joint swelling.
- Use of biologics like tumour necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukin inhibitors (IL-17) can help control inflammation by changing the immune system.
- Another option is a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor, taken orally and helps to treat ankylosing spondylitis, including tofacitinib and upadacitinib.
- The use of injectable corticosteroids eases joint pain and inflammation.
- Monoclonal antibodies can also be used to treat ankylosing spondylitis if a person doesn’t respond to treatment with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and anti-tumour necrosis factor (anti-TNF). The monoclonal antibodies used are secukinumab and ixekizumab, which work by blocking the effects of a protein involved in triggering inflammation.
- A small number of people with ankylosing spondylitis may need joint replacement surgery and an artificial joint implant to treat this condition.
Conclusion
Ankylosing spondylitis is a rare type of arthritis that affects the spine and it is a lifelong condition without a cure. However, some treatments can prevent permanent injury to the spinal cord and nerves. If a person is willing to practice self-care which involves regular exercise, that can help in maintaining physical activity, which will help in speedy recovery of bones and joints. Treating ankylosing spondylitis can be expensive. Buying health insurance can ease these financial worries.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.