Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing Spondylitis (inflammatory arthritis in Spine)

Ease Spine Inflammation with Yoga for Ankylosing Spondylitis

What is Ankylosing Spondylitis?

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a chronic arthritis mainly affecting the spine, causing pain, stiffness, and inflammation. Over time, vertebrae may fuse, reducing flexibility. While more common in young men, it can affect anyone. Though incurable, early diagnosis allows for treatment to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Causes of Ankylosing Spondylitis

Unknown origin: The exact cause of AS remains a mystery.
Genetic role: Genes play a significant part in developing AS, with a specific gene being strongly associated with the condition.
Family history: Having close relatives with AS increases your risk.
Complex interplay: The condition is likely caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, but the exact mechanism is not fully understood.

Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis

Back pain and stiffness: Chronic pain and stiffness, especially in the lower back, hips, and buttocks.
Fatigue: Feeling tired and lacking energy is a common symptom.
Reduced flexibility: Difficulty bending, twisting, or moving the spine due to stiffness and inflammation.

Yoga Asanas for Ankylosing Spondylitis

Adhomukha Svanasana: This asana gently stretches the spine and improves hip and shoulder flexibility.
Uttanasana:gently stretches the spine, hamstrings, and hips, improving flexibility and relieving stiffness, while promoting relaxation and easing mild back pain.
Utthita Trikonasana: helps improve spinal alignment and flexibility while relieving stiffness in the hips and back, promoting better posture and mobility.
Ardha Chandrasana: helps enhance spinal mobility and balance while relieving stiffness in the back and hips, promoting strength and stability.
Adho Mukha Vrksasana:help strengthen the shoulders, arms, and core while improving spinal alignment and relieving mild back tension.
Viparita Dandasana:gently stretches the spine and opens the chest, improving posture, relieving stiffness, and enhancing flexibility without putting excessive strain on the back.
Salamba Sarvangasana: boosts circulation, helping reduce inflammation and stiffness in the spine and joints, while gently improving shoulder and neck flexibility.
Halasana:helps decompress the spine, reduces stiffness in the back, and improves overall flexibility, aiding in better posture and mobility.
Savasana: helps to calm the nervous system, reduce muscle stiffness, and promote healing by allowing the body to rest in a neutral position, aiding in relief from pain and discomfort.