Ankylosing Spondylitis: Therapy

General measures

From the beginning of the diagnosis of the disease should be started with exercise therapy!
Nicotine restriction (refraining from tobacco use) – smoking has an unfavorable effect on disease activity and also increases radiographic progression (progression of the disease).

Nutritional counseling based on nutritional analysis
Nutritional recommendations according to a mixed diet taking into account the disease at hand. This means, among other things:
- A total of 5 servings of fresh vegetables and fruit daily (≥ 400 g; 3 servings of vegetables and 2 servings of fruit).
- High-fiber diet (whole grains, vegetables).
Observance of the following special dietary recommendations:
- Diet rich in:
  - Omega-3 fatty acids – fresh sea fish once or twice a week, i.e. fatty sea fish such as salmon, herring, mackerel.
Selection of appropriate food based on the nutritional analysis
See also under “Therapy with micronutrients (vital substances)” – if necessary, taking a suitable dietary supplement.
Detailed information on nutritional medicine you will receive from us.

Endurance training (cardio training) and strength training (muscle training).
Water gymnastics – this achieved greater pain relief compared to floor gymnastics (gymnastic exercises at home).
Running, cycling (with higher handlebars); cross-country skiing in winter.
Preparation of a fitness or training plan with appropriate sports disciplines based on a medical check (health check or athlete check).
Detailed information on sports medicine you will receive from us.

Physical therapy is the most important measure to prevent complete spinal fusion. See also the physical therapy measures listed below.
Exercise therapy – to maintain mobility.
Hydrotherapy
Serial water-filtered infrared A whole-body irradiation.
Heat therapy for non-inflammatory stages.