What is Ankylosing Spondylitis? Can it be cured?

Ankylosing Spondylitis is a disease related to the joints and bones, which not only affects mobility and daily activities but also causes pain and potentially dangerous complications. However, not everyone understands this condition well. Let’s explore what Ankylosing Spondylitis is and whether it can be cured in the following article.

According to statistics, the prevalence of Ankylosing Spondylitis among patients with joint and bone conditions in Vietnam is about 10.41%, and this percentage is increasing. Especially, many cases have progressed to severe stages due to improper treatment methods. If you frequently experience swelling, pain, and difficulty moving in joints of the hands, back, feet, and knees, you might be suffering from Ankylosing Spondylitis. This condition not only causes joint inflammation but also affects the lungs, heart, eyes, skin, and nerves.

What is Ankylosing Spondylitis?

Ankylosing Spondylitis is a condition of localized inflammation within the synovial fluid of the joints. The inflammation leads to symptoms such as swelling, pain, redness, and warmth. Over time, the affected joints become stiff and can even deform, causing loss of normal mobility. This condition not only causes discomfort and pain but also increases the risk of dangerous complications like long-term degeneration and erosion of bone joints.

Causes of Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing Spondylitis occurs due to issues with the body’s immune system. When the synovium, the layer of membrane surrounding the joint, is attacked, inflammation and thickening occur. As the disease progresses, cartilage and bone joints can be damaged.

Additionally, the condition leads to stretching, weakening, and loss of function in tendons and ligaments, resulting in joint instability. Over time, this can cause joint deformities.

Currently, scientists still don’t fully understand the cause of this immune system disorder. However, genetic factors may play a role, as certain genes can make individuals more sensitive to environmental factors such as specific bacteria or viruses that trigger the disease. Moreover, the prevalence of Ankylosing Spondylitis is higher among females than males.

Can Ankylosing Spondylitis be cured?

Whether Ankylosing Spondylitis can be cured is a common question that many people are concerned about. In reality, it is a chronic condition, so those affected will have to live with it throughout their lives. However, there are some measures that can help reduce the symptoms caused by the inflammation and prevent the condition from becoming more severe.

For mild cases, with a few inflamed joints and relatively normal movement, using common pain-relief and anti-inflammatory medications, along with gentle exercise, physical therapy, and electrostimulation can be effective.

For moderate cases, where multiple joints are inflamed and movement is limited, moderate doses of anti-inflammatory medications like nonsteroidal or corticosteroid drugs, combined with physical therapy, can be recommended by a doctor.

For severe cases, where mobility is severely impaired, high doses of corticosteroids, D-penicillamine, biologic drugs, methotrexate, etc., prescribed by a doctor, might be necessary.

In cases of extreme severity, surgical interventions like joint corrections or replacements might be considered to treat the condition.

Preventing Ankylosing Spondylitis

While Ankylosing Spondylitis is challenging to cure, adopting a proper lifestyle and engaging in physical activities can help prevent it from worsening and affecting daily life quality. Regular joint movement can reduce the risk of dangerous complications.

Regular Exercise

Experts recommend at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week. Activities like swimming, jogging, or cycling for 30 minutes a day can be beneficial.

Maintain a Healthy Weight
Obesity and excess weight can contribute to joint problems. Maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent this condition.

Quit Smoking

Smoking exacerbates the severity of Ankylosing Spondylitis. Even those who aren’t affected by the condition are at a higher risk if they smoke.

In conclusion, Ankylosing Spondylitis is a condition that is becoming more prevalent among younger individuals. To maintain healthy joints, regular exercise is essential. If a busy lifestyle makes it challenging to engage in physical activities, using exercise equipment at home, such as stationary bikes or treadmills, can be beneficial for saving time and improving health. Additionally, using healthcare devices like massage chairs can alleviate pain, improve sleep, and enhance blood circulation, making them a safe and effective option for many Vietnamese families.

You can consider the AVA massage chair series from Japan, available at various price ranges from 18 million to 139 million VND, depending on your family’s needs.

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