The pain and stiffness of ankylosing spondylitis can make it difficult to do your daily activities. There is no cure for ankylosing spondylitis, but you'll probably have times when your symptoms improve and times when they're worse. In addition to the treatment plan your doctor gives you, there are lifestyle modifications you can make at home to improve your symptoms. Here are five ways to feel better without surgery or more medicine:
- Stay active to help relieve pain, improve your posture, and increase your energy level.
- Engage in light, gentle stretching after a warm bath or shower to help increase your flexibility and get a good night's sleep.
- Spend some time in the sun to make sure you're getting enough vitamin D to help your body absorb calcium.
- Use a heating pad or hot packs to help stiff joints and tight muscles.
- Use cold packs for pain and inflammation.
