Ankylosing Spondylitis: Managing Muscle Pain with Massage Therapy

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a type of arthritis. It is a chronic and progressive inflammatory disease of the joints and cartilages of the spine. Where AS differs from spinal arthritis is that it typically targets the tissues between the vertebrae in the spine, and the joints where the pelvis meets the spine. The condition is characterized by pain and stiffness in the lower back and hips, which is most noticeable in the morning or following periods of inactivity. Inflammation can also occur in other parts of the body, including the shoulders and pelvic region, and affecting joints, tendons and ligaments. AS can even affect the eyes, resulting in pain, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision. AS can also cause problems with the aorta, which is the largest artery in the body. The inflamed aorta can enlarge to where its function may become compromised.

AS affects men more often than women. Signs and symptoms of AS (including tiredness and fatigue, loss of appetite and weight loss) typically begin in early adulthood, between the ages of 20 and 30 years. While AS has no known specific cause, there is a strong genetic or family link.

Medications may be prescribed that can relieve the pain and stiffness. However, drugs can also run the risk of causing gastrointestinal bleeding. Surgery is rarely a treatment option unless there is severe pain or advanced joint damage that may require hip or knee replacement.

For AS sufferers seeking a natural alternative treatment, massage has proven effective in relieving muscle pain and stiffness, reducing neck and back aches caused by the disease. Massage increases blood flow, reduces muscle and bone tension, and increases endorphin levels that help in reducing pain. Massage is also effective in eliminating the stress that may be associated with the disease. Most people have reported the best results from soft tissue massages. However, it is important to note that some people with AS may not tolerate massages well as not everyone experiences the same severity of symptoms, and for some even the lightest touch can be painful. It is important for a person with AS to pay close attention to their body and keep aware of any negative effects. If experiencing any sort of pain or discomfort during the treatment, this should be discussed with the massage therapist.

The benefits of massage vary from person to person - even at times for the same person. Some will experience less pain and improved mobility after one massage treatment. Others, however, may need several treatments before noticing a difference. This may also depend on how long one has had AS and how far it has progressed. If the condition has progressed to the later stages, the pain may decrease but stiffness and immobility might increase.

Academy Massage offers therapies to assist in reducing the painful and even debilitating symptoms of AS, administered by a trained and qualified massage therapist. While as yet there is no cure for AS, the proper treatment program can help one lead a more normal and productive life.