Ankylosing Spondylitis and Chiropractic: What You Need to Know
Ankylosing Spondylitis and Chiropractic: What You Need to Know
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) may sound complicated, but it’s a common condition. This form of arthritis primarily affects the spine, though it can also impact other joints. It causes inflammation of the spinal joints (vertebrae) that can lead to severe, chronic pain and discomfort. Over time, the condition can cause fusion of the spine, leading to a loss of flexibility and a hunched-forward posture. While there is no cure for ankylosing spondylitis, chiropractic care has emerged as a supportive therapy that can help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life for those living with AS.
What Is Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Ankylosing spondylitis is an inflammatory condition that is part of a group of arthritis-related diseases known as spondyloarthropathies. The hallmark feature of AS is the inflammation of the sacroiliac joints at the base of the spine, which can spread upwards to involve other parts of the spine and, in some cases, other joints and organs.
Symptoms typically begin in early adulthood and can vary widely among individuals, from mild discomfort to severe pain and stiffness. The exact cause of AS is unknown, but genetic factors are believed to play a significant role.
Chiropractic Care and Ankylosing Spondylitis
Chiropractic care focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, with special emphasis on the spine. It involves manual therapy, including spinal adjustments, to improve function and provide pain relief.
For those with ankylosing spondylitis, care from a chiropractor like Dr. Thomas Madigan and Dr. Brendan Shanahan offers several benefits. It can help with managing pain, improving range of motion, enhancing posture, and increasing overall health and wellness. A thorough examination and a tailored treatment plan are essential to ensure that chiropractic adjustments are delivered safely and effectively, as the condition can make the spine more susceptible to injury.
Managing AS Symptoms
Chiropractic care can play a significant role in the multidisciplinary approach to managing ankylosing spondylitis. By improving spinal mobility and reducing stiffness, chiropractic adjustments can help to maintain flexibility and delay the progression of spinal fusion.
Additionally, chiropractic techniques can alleviate pain without the need for medication, which is an important consideration for those looking to minimize the use of pain relievers.
Vitality Precision Chiropractic for Wellness Care in Rochester Hills
A Rochester Hills chiropractor offers a non-invasive, drug-free approach to managing the symptoms of AS, providing relief from pain and stiffness while promoting mobility and function. At Vitality Precision Chiropractic, we understand the complexities of ankylosing spondylitis and are dedicated to providing personalized care to meet the unique needs of each patient. Visit us at Vitality Precision Chiropractic to learn more and to schedule a consultation. Let us help you achieve better health and improved vitality, one adjustment at a time.