Spondylitis: Understanding and Treatment in Delhi

Spondylitis is a form of arthritis that primarily affects the spine and joints. It is more prevalent in men than in women, often beginning in early adulthood. This condition can significantly limit spinal flexibility and lead to back and joint pain. While treatment usually involves medication and physiotherapy, surgery is rarely necessary.

What is Ankylosing Spondylitis?

Ankylosing spondylitis is a common type of spondylitis characterized by the fusion of certain spinal bones, resulting in reduced flexibility and a hunched posture. In severe cases, it may also impact the ribs, causing breathing difficulties.

Symptoms of Spondylitis

Symptoms typically emerge in early adulthood and may include:

• Pain and Stiffness: Particularly in the lower back and hips, often worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
• Neck Pain: Discomfort may extend to the neck region.
• Fatigue: A general sense of tiredness may be experienced.
• Inflammation: Particularly in the eyes, which can occur alongside back pain.
• Night Sweats and Sleep Disorders: Some individuals may experience disruptions in sleep.

Commonly affected areas include the joints between the spine and pelvis, lower back vertebrae, tendons and ligaments attached to bones, cartilage between the breastbone and ribs, as well as the hip and shoulder joints.

Types of Spondylitis

1. Ankylosing Spondylitis: Primarily affects the spine and lower back.
2. Enteropathic Arthritis: Associated with intestinal inflammation, presenting symptoms like back pain, stomach pain, chronic diarrhea, and weight loss.
3. Psoriatic Arthritis: Linked with skin psoriasis, causing joint pain and stiffness.
4. Reactive Arthritis: Triggered by bacterial infections, resulting in joint pain, skin rashes, and eye inflammation.
5. Juvenile Spondylitis: Affects children and teenagers, impacting leg joints.
6. Undifferentiated Spondylitis: Presents a range of symptoms without clear classification, such as inflammatory back pain and fatigue.

Diagnosis

To diagnose spondylitis, doctors will perform a physical examination, which may include:

• Flexibility Tests: Bending in different directions to identify pain locations.
• Pressing Specific Areas: To pinpoint areas of discomfort.
• Imaging Tests: X-rays can reveal changes in bones and joints, while MRI scans provide detailed images using magnetic and radio waves.

Treatment Options

The main goals of treatment are to alleviate pain and prevent joint damage.

Medications

Doctors typically prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers to manage symptoms and improve mobility.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is crucial, focusing on exercises tailored to individual needs. A physical therapist can assist patients in navigating through:

• Range-of-Motion Exercises: To enhance flexibility.
• Strengthening Exercises: Targeting the abdominal & lower back muscles.
• Postural Education: Teaching proper sleeping and walking positions.

Surgery

Surgery is seldom recommended and usually only considered in cases of severe, intolerable pain or when the hip joint is significantly damaged. In such instances, joint replacement surgery may be performed.

Lifestyle Modifications

Although there is no definitive cure for spondylitis, certain lifestyle adjustments can help manage symptoms:

• Posture Maintenance: Focus on good posture while sitting and standing.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking can exacerbate symptoms; seeking help to quit is advisable.
• Weight Management: Keeping a healthy weight helps alleviate stress on the joints.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Best Exercises for Spondylitis?

Consulting a physical therapist is essential to determine the most beneficial exercises tailored to your condition.

Is There a Specific Diet to Follow?

While there’s no strict diet, maintaining a healthy weight is crucial. If you struggle to balance your diet, consulting a nutritionist can provide guidance.

How Can Posture Be Improved?

Improving posture involves consistent practice of muscle-strengthening exercises and maintaining good habits while sitting and standing, under medical guidance.

What Should Be Avoided?

Certain movements and lifting heavy weights may need to be avoided. Consulting your doctor is critical for personalized advice, especially regarding smoking cessation.

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