Can Physical Therapy Help Alleviate Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis?

Q: Can Physical Therapy Help Alleviate Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis?

Hello, thank you for your question. <br>Here are my answers： 1) Can using a heating pad at home on my lower back help alleviate the remaining pain? Would a doctor recommend this? --> Yes, it can be beneficial. <br>2) Is it okay to occasionally go to a rehabilitation department fo

Can the symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis be alleviated through rehabilitation?

Hello, Doctor.
I am a 20-year-old male patient with ankylosing spondylitis.
My main issue is pain in my lower back (not reaching the buttocks).
Currently, I am taking Celebrex and exercising more to manage the pain, which has improved by about 70%.
The pain after improvement does not affect my daily life or general sports activities, but I still often feel that mild pain during exercise (although it is considered mild).
I know that increasing the medication dosage could help alleviate the remaining pain, but if I prefer not to rely on a higher dosage, I would like to ask the doctor: 1) Would using a heating pad at home on my lower back help improve the remaining pain? Would you recommend this? 2) Is it okay to occasionally go to physical therapy for standard treatments like heat therapy, electrical stimulation, or ultrasound? Thank you, Doctor.

Yong, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/12/13

Dr. Gao Jiankai reply Internal Medicine

Hello, thank you for your question.
Here are my answers: 1) Can using a heating pad at home on my lower back help alleviate the remaining pain? Would a doctor recommend this? --> Yes, it can be beneficial.
2) Is it okay to occasionally go to a rehabilitation department for general treatments such as heat therapy, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound? --> Yes, that is acceptable.
Best regards from the Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2022/12/13

More Info

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a type of inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine, leading to severe pain and stiffness. As a 20-year-old male patient managing AS, it’s great to hear that you’ve experienced a 70% improvement in your symptoms through medication and exercise. Your proactive approach to managing your condition is commendable. Now, let’s address your questions regarding physical therapy and home treatments.

1. Using a Heating Pad at Home: Applying heat to the lower back can indeed provide relief from pain and stiffness associated with ankylosing spondylitis. Heat therapy helps to increase blood flow to the affected area, relax muscles, and alleviate discomfort. A heating pad can be particularly beneficial before engaging in physical activities or exercises, as it can help loosen tight muscles and improve flexibility. However, it’s essential to use the heating pad safely—avoid prolonged exposure to prevent burns, and ensure it’s at a comfortable temperature. Additionally, while heat can help with symptom management, it’s not a cure for the underlying inflammation of AS. Therefore, it’s advisable to combine heat therapy with other treatments, such as physical therapy and prescribed medications.

2. Physical Therapy Treatments: Visiting a rehabilitation center for treatments like heat therapy, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound can be beneficial. These modalities can help reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall function. Physical therapists can also provide tailored exercise programs that focus on strengthening the muscles around the spine, improving posture, and increasing flexibility. Engaging in a structured physical therapy program can be particularly effective in managing AS symptoms and preventing further complications.
In addition to heat therapy and physical therapy, consider incorporating the following strategies into your management plan:
- Regular Exercise: Continuing with regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining spinal mobility and overall health. Low-impact exercises such as swimming, cycling, and yoga can be particularly beneficial. These activities help strengthen the back muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce stiffness.

- Posture Awareness: Maintaining good posture is essential for individuals with AS. Being mindful of your posture while sitting, standing, and moving can help alleviate strain on your spine and reduce pain.

- Stretching: Incorporating stretching exercises into your daily routine can help improve flexibility and reduce stiffness. Focus on stretches that target the lower back, hips, and hamstrings.

- Medication Management: While you mentioned not wanting to increase your medication dosage, it’s essential to communicate with your healthcare provider about any persistent pain. They may suggest alternative medications or therapies that can help manage your symptoms without increasing your current medication.

- Mind-Body Techniques: Consider exploring mind-body techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or tai chi. These practices can help manage pain perception and improve overall well-being.

In conclusion, physical therapy can significantly alleviate symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis, and combining various treatment modalities—such as heat therapy, structured exercise, and professional rehabilitation—can lead to better management of your condition. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making changes to your treatment plan to ensure that your approach is safe and effective for your specific needs.

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