Spondylitis is an inflammatory disorder that affects the spine and other areas of the body. It can cause severe pain and stiffness, as well as fatigue. While there is no cure for spondylitis, there are certain activities and lifestyle choices that can help reduce the symptoms and improve the overall quality of life.
What Not to Do
Avoid High-Impact Activities: High-impact activities such as running, jumping, and contact sports can put strain on the spine and exacerbate the symptoms of spondylitis. It's best to avoid these activities or find low-impact alternatives.
Don't Overstretch: Stretching can be beneficial for people with spondylitis, but it is important not to overstretch. Overstretching can cause the spine to become overly flexible, which can make the condition worse.
Avoid Bending and Twisting: Bending and twisting can cause strain on the spine and can worsen the symptoms of spondylitis. It's important to avoid these movements where possible.
Don't Lift Heavy Objects: Lifting heavy objects can also strain the spine and should be avoided. If you must lift something heavy, make sure to lift with your legs and not your back.
Avoid Sitting for Long Periods of Time: Sitting for extended periods of time can cause stiffness and pain in the spine. It's important to get up and move around every few hours to reduce stiffness and improve circulation.
Don't Smoke: Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of developing spondylitis, as well as other inflammatory disorders. It is important to quit smoking if you have spondylitis, as it can worsen the symptoms.
Conclusion
It is important to be aware of activities and lifestyle choices that can worsen the symptoms of spondylitis. Avoiding high-impact activities, overstretching, bending and twisting, lifting heavy objects, sitting for long periods of time, and smoking can all help to reduce the symptoms and improve the overall quality of life.