Yesterday marked World Ankylosing Spondylitis Day, a day to raise awareness about this often misunderstood and invisible illness. Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory condition primarily affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced flexibility.
In Australia, over 2.7 million people suffer from various forms of arthritis, with AS representing a significant portion of cases, typically emerging in early adulthood between ages 17 and 45, with men outnumbering women in diagnoses at a ratio of 3:1.
Morning stiffness is a common symptom of AS, improving with movement throughout the day. Tailored exercises such as swimming and yoga, along with manual therapies like massage, can alleviate stiffness and inflammation. Organisations like @arthritisaustralia, the Australian Rheumatology Association, and @mskaust provide vital support networks for those navigating AS challenges.
If you’re seeking relief from AS, consider reaching out to EP Todd Browne and MT Trent Renshaw at Coffs Coast Sports Physiotherapy. Their specialised expertise enables them to tailor exercise programs and manual therapy techniques to alleviate AS symptoms and improve quality of life. Whether you’re managing pain, enhancing mobility, or optimising function, Todd and Trent are committed to supporting you on your AS journey.
