🧬 Today is World Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) Day. AS is a progressive inflammatory condition that affects up to 1 in 50 Australians, with men diagnosed 3 times more often than women.
AS often begins in the prime of life — between age 15 and 45 years. It’s more than just back pain. AS is a chronic disease that can fuse the spine, reduce lung capacity, and lead to permanent postural changes if left unmanaged — yet many men wait over 6 years for a diagnosis, often mistaking the symptoms for wear and tear or overuse.
💡 Did you know? Freestyle swimming is one of the most effective forms of exercise for men living with AS. It promotes spinal rotation, helps maintain chest expansion, strengthens core and postural muscles – all with low joint stress in a low-impact environment.
To further support mobility and manage symptoms, remedial massage plays a key role in:
✔️ Modulating pain and inflammation
✔️ Preserving functional mobility
✔️ Reducing compensatory muscle tightness
✔️ Supporting breathing mechanics and posture
MT Trent Renshaw, based at Coffs Coast Sports Physiotherapy, provides tailored, evidence-based treatment for men managing ankylosing spondylitis.
📞 Take control of your spinal health. Call Coffs Coast Sports Physiotherapy on (02) 6651 9622 to book an appointment with Trent today.
