Spondylitis is a chronic condition that can affect your spine and other joints. This will lead to stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility. If you can recognise early symptoms and seek timely treatment, then you can prevent long-term complications.
Here’s a detailed look at the major symptoms, their progression, and when to seek help.
Early Signs of Spondylitis
Here are the early signs to watch out for.
Morning Stiffness
A key symptom of spondylitis is the stiffness felt in the back or neck, especially when waking. This stiffness can last for an hour or more and may get better with gentle activity. Over time, the stiffness may continue for longer times and you may start to feel it in other parts of the body, such as the hips or shoulders.
Pain in the Spine or Joints
Chronic pain often starts in the lower back or neck. The pain may spread to other areas, including the thighs or ribcage, and may become worse after periods of inactivity. It can also intensify during the night, disturbing sleep.
Fatigue
Chronic inflammation, which is a part of spondylitis, will drain your energy. This leaves you feeling tired and sluggish throughout the day. Such fatigue can make it difficult to focus on daily tasks.
Progression of Symptoms
If left untreated, spondylitis symptoms will worsen, leading to severe complications.
Loss of Mobility
As the inflammation persists, spinal flexibility decreases. You will find it challenging to perform simple movements like bending or twisting. In advanced cases, vertebrae can fuse together, resulting in a stiff and immobile spine.
Postural Changes
Spondylitis may lead to visible changes in your posture. If the thoracic spine is affected, a hunched back, also known as kyphosis, may develop. This not only impacts physical appearance but can also cause breathing difficulties.
Nerve Compression
In some cases, inflammation or structural changes in the spine may compress nearby nerves. This causes numbness, tingling, or weakness in the extremities. This is a severe health issue that needs to be treated right away.
When to Seek Professional Care
It’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider if you notice persistent back pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility, particularly if these symptoms worsen over time. Early intervention can help you manage inflammation and prevent complications.
Diagnosis and Treatment: A proper diagnosis often involves imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs to assess the condition of the spine and joints. The doctor may conduct blood tests to check for markers of inflammation.
You may be recommended treatment options such as:
- Physical Therapy: Strengthening and stretching exercises to improve flexibility and posture
- Medications: Medications that lessen inflammation and pain
- Spinal Decompression Treatment: A non-surgical option to relieve pressure on the spine and improve mobility
Managing Spondylitis Effectively
Adopting a proactive approach to spinal health is key. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and practising good posture can help you manage symptoms. If you suspect spondylitis, don’t delay seeking professional care. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference, allowing you to lead an active, pain-free life.
By paying attention to the warning signs, you can take control of your spinal health and prevent spondylitis from interfering with your quality of life.
About ANSSI:
ANSSI Wellness focuses on improving the quality of life for patients suffering from spinal issues, aiming to provide relief where other conventional treatments have failed. Through advanced nonsurgical spinal decompression treatment, ANSSI is committed to helping patients avoid surgery and recover in a safe, effective, and compassionate environment.
