What are the different treatments for Ankylosing Spondylitis?

1. What are the different treatments for Ankylosing Spondylitis? Introduction Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a type of arthritis which primarily affects the spine, but also involves other joints. Ankylosing spondylitis causes inflammation in the spinal joints that leads to severe pain and discomfort. The joints where the spine joins the pelvis are usually affected as well. Back pain is a characteristic sign of AS, which comes and goes in spans of time, along with stiffness of the joints which tend to get worse with the passage of time. The exact cause of AS is unknown, although it is known that genetic factors are involved, as more than 90% of the affected individuals have a specific human leukocyte antigen known as HLA-B27, which is considered to trigger an autoimmune and auto-inflammatory response. Treatment There is no cure for Ankylosing Spondylitis. The treatments available aim to reduce pain and discomfort, and improve function for a normal life. These are a few treatments that are usually advised. Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy, if started early in the disease can do wonders for you. It maintains function and prevents deformity. There are hospitals in Gurgaon and NCR which have a special physiotherapy department for treatment of all types of arthritis. Exercise: Daily exercise will help reduce stiffness, strengthen the muscles and prevent the risk of disability. Deep breathing exercises like pranayama and yoga, can help keep the rib-cage flexible. Swimming is an exercise that is highly recommended for Ankylosing spondylitis. Medications: There are certain medicines and drugs that can provide relief from the stiffness and pain that comes with AS. These are usually taken along with the exercise routine. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), are commonly used for treatment of AS. These include ibuprofen, naproxen and aspirin, which are easily available. In severe cases, drugs such as disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) such as methotrexate may be added to the mix.

2. Surgery: For advanced stages of the disease, surgery may be the only option. Surgery includes surgery of the spine, as well as artificial joint replacement. There are spine surgeons in Gurgaon which perform such surgeries. There are also spine specialists in Gurgaon and NCR which specialize in treating arthritis patients. Source: https://www.parashospitals.com/paras-hospital-gurgaon/centres-of- excellence/spine-services/ Search Terms: spine specialist in gurgaon,best spine surgeon in gurgaon, hospitals in gurgaon, hospitals in delhi ncr.