Spondylitis, a form of spondylopathy, is caused by the inflammation of the vertebra and is a common cause of neck and back pain. Spondylitis develops gradually and unobtrusively, with the patient only becoming aware of the condition once it has matured. The pain, at times excruciating, is usually the first indication the patient has that something is amiss. This pain is usually concentrated around the neck, shoulder and lower back and radiates outwards along the limbs.
The three types of spondylitis are categorized according to the region of the body that is affected. Cervical spondylitis affects the cervical spine causing the pain to radiate outwards along the back of the neck, shoulders, spine and arms. Lumbar spondylitis affects the lumbar region while ankylosing spondylitis affects the sacroiliac joints.
Spontaneous Remedies to Deal with Spondylitis
Spondylitis treatment usually employs a combination of physiotherapy, massage therapy and lifestyle changes. There is no cure and any medication that the doctor may prescribe will be to provide symptomatic relief.
Here are some home remedies for spondylitis which will provide some relief from the pain.
Massage Therapy: This form of therapy can provide you with temporary relief from the pain and stiffness associated with spondylitis. It can help to improve blood circulation and relax the neck muscles. Adding aromatherapy oil to the massage oil can help relax you further. Massaging with sesame oil or dried ginger boiled in mustard oil can also provide relief.
Physiotherapy: A trained physiotherapist can help take you through a series of exercises that will lessen the pain, reduce stiffness and improve flexibility. Once you have mastered the exercises, you will have to continue performing them at home.
Neck Traction: This can be helpful in cases of acute cervical spondylitis. A neck brace along with the traction device can be purchased from a medical equipment dealer. There are certain neck exercises that should be performed under the guidance of a physiotherapist for half an hour every day. This will help to provide relief from the pain.
Change your Chair: Bad posture can be one of the causes of spondylitis and changing your chair can make all the difference. Ideally, your chair should have a firm seat and an upright back with support for your neck. It should also have arms so as to lessen the load on your spine. Low chairs, soft chairs and couches and bean bags should be avoided since they contribute to bad posture which will exacerbate the problem.
Change your Bed: Ideally, your bed should be firm and be able to support your back without sagging. Use only a thin single pillow.
Watch your Posture: Maintaining an erect posture will help maintain a healthy spine.
Diet: Other natural remedies for spondylitis arthritis involve dietary changes. A nourishing high protein diet along with adequate amounts of fresh vegetables, fruits and dairy products will go a long way in keeping you fit. Consult your doctor regarding any dietary changes you may require.
Tai Chi: Studies conducted have shown that practicing tai chi for an hour, at least twice a week, can over a period of time, reduce the inflammation and pain associated with ankylosing spondylitis, as well as improve flexibility to a remarkable extent. (Reference:http://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletters/Harvard_Womens_Health_Watch/2009/May/The-health-benefits-of-tai-chi)
Yoga: There are many yoga poses or asanas that can help relieve pain in the joints caused by spondylitis. Poses such as the Snake pose and the Fish pose have been used effectively to reduce the pain associated with cervical and ankylosing spondylitis. Other poses that help relieve stiffness and pain in the joints include the Bow pose, Half Spinal Twist and Diamond pose. These poses should only be attempted under the guidance of a trained yoga instructor.
