Treating axspa
If you are diagnosed with axSpA, your rheumatologist will work with you to treat your condition. Your rheumatologist will discuss which prescription medicines may be right for you.
Treatment Options
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs are over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers that can help manage the inflammation that causes the day-to-day pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility of axSpA. They can provide temporary relief but may not always address the underlying cause of the disease.
Biologics
Biologics are medications made from living sources, and target specific areas of your body’s immune system. They treat the inflammation caused by these conditions.
Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)
DMARDs, or disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, help preserve joints by blocking inflammation but may not provide immediate pain relief. If you’re taking a DMARD, your doctor may prescribe another treatment to help manage pain.
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Manage the monster
Work With Your Rheumatologist
Once you identify a rheumatologist who’s right for you, it’s important that you routinely stay in contact in order to monitor your progress, and so that he or she can be aware of any changes in your condition.
Stick With What Works
Consistency is key. Keep taking any medications as prescribed, and try to build a routine around moving more, whether it’s a daily walk after breakfast or a weekly yoga class with a friend.
Stay Current
Routine monitoring and tests are an important aspect of managing axSpA. Even if you’re feeling well, make sure to keep appointments and continue treatments that your rheumatologist has deemed right for you.
Everyday decisions
Get Moving
Finding a balance between rest and moderate physical activity is an important part of managing axSpA. Consider low-impact exercises to help increase blood flow while loosening muscles, particularly in your back:
Light stretching or yoga
Swimming
Biking
Walking
You should always talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise regimen.
Practice Your Posture
Practicing good posture is a simple way to help keep your muscles and joints in their correct alignment, which may counteract the ankylosing or “bending” effect that people with AS may experience.
Decide on a Diet
Proper nutrition and hydration is important when living with axSpA. Consider:
Eating plenty of vegetables
Minimizing your intake of foods that are known to cause inflammation, like processed foods (such as cured meats and foods containing high-fructose corn syrup) and alcohol
Drinking more water—proper hydration is thought to be one of the key factors in fighting the inflammation these conditions can cause
Strive for Sleep
Sleeping isn’t easy when you have axSpA, but it is one of the most important tools to fight inflammation and stiffness. Sleep is rejuvenating and helps your body recover from injury and illness. To help get the sleep your body needs, try to keep a consistent evening routine with bedtime at the same time every night.
Get more information
Here are a few resources that can help you learn more about inflammatory back pain, axSpA, and other conditions, and how to manage them.
The organizations and websites listed above are independently operated and not managed by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. Novartis assumes no responsibility, nor makes any endorsement, regarding any information they may provide.
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