Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) can be improved with a healthy body weight and exercise. Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of inflammatory arthritis that mainly affects the spine and can lead to pain, fatigue, and stiffness. But research has shown regular exercise can help improve it.

The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) outlined recommendations for patients with ankylosing spondylitis. Principal investigator Michael Ward said, “The ACR’s primary objective was to provide recommendations on optimal treatment for patients with AS and non-radiographic axial SpA [spondyloarthritis] that were based on quality evidence and took into consideration patient values and preferences. While the guideline does not cover all aspects of spondyloarthritis management, it provides a foundation based on the current best-available evidence.”

The guidelines not only discuss the broad spectrum of ankylosing spondylitis treatments. The investigators also included the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach (called GRADE), which specifications for different patient groups, interventions, competing treatment alternatives and outcomes, grading the quality of evidence used, and basing recommendations on benefits and harm.

Recommendations are placed into one of five categories: recommendations for the treatment of patients with active AS (pharmacologic and rehabilitation), recommendations for the treatment of patients with stable AS (pharmacologic and rehabilitation), recommendations for the treatment of patients with either active or stable AS, recommendations for the treatment of patients with AS and specific impairments or comorbidities (such as advanced hip arthritis, severe kyphosis, acute iritis, and inflammatory bowel disease), education and preventive care recommendations; and recommendations for the treatment of patients with non-radiographic axial SpA.

Each category contains recommendations regarding pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical interventions followed by supporting evidence.

Treating ankylosing spondylitis- http://www.belmarrahealth.com/ankylosing-spondylitis-treatment-guidelines-diet-and-exercise-tips/