Strengthening one's back with ankylosing spondylitis is an important part of managing the condition and can help to reduce pain, improve mobility, and even slow the progression of the disease.
The first step in strengthening the back with ankylosing spondylitis is to understand the condition and its limitations. For example, those with ankylosing spondylitis should avoid high-impact activities such as running, jumping, and any form of contact sports. It is important to stay within the limits of the condition and not push the body beyond what it can handle.
When it comes to strengthening the back, it is important to incorporate exercises that target the whole back, including the upper, middle, and lower back muscles. It is best to start with low-impact exercises such as swimming, walking, and yoga as these can help to build strength without putting too much strain on the body.
Core exercises can also be beneficial for those with ankylosing spondylitis. Core exercises such as planks, side planks, and bridges can help to strengthen the abdominal muscles, which can help to provide stability and support to the spine.
It is also important to be mindful of posture when strengthening the back. Poor posture can put extra strain on the back and can worsen symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the back is in a neutral, upright position while exercising and throughout the day.
It is also important to ensure that the body is properly stretched and warmed up before any exercise. This can help to reduce the risk of injury and can make the exercises more comfortable.
Finally, it is important to be consistent with the exercises and to not overexert the body. It is best to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity as the body becomes stronger and more flexible. Following a regular program of back strengthening exercises can help to improve the symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis and can help to slow the progression of the condition.