Stretching and Flexibility Exercise
Exercises that improve flexibility can expand range of motion. These are workouts that target tight joints and can be performed without the use of weights.
For those with AS, flexibility exercises [5] are especially crucial to combat the tendency of not moving so you can avoid moving painful joints and body parts. But, staying still can cause more stiffness and discomfort when you move.
In persons with AS, lack of movement can potentially result in spinal fusion. This occurs when the spine’s bones fuse together, creating a rigid backbone that makes walking challenging.
You can create a schedule of the flexibility exercises you require with the aid of your physical therapist. The secret to your practice is consistency. How frequently to perform the exercises will be suggested by your therapist. If standing activities are too difficult for you, you can also perform some stretches while sitting down.
The seated glute stretch is a perfect example:
- Put your feet flat on the floor and lean back on a chair.
- Raise your right leg, allowing your right knee to drop out to the side, and place the outside of your right ankle on your left thigh above your knee.
- Keep your spine straight while angling your upper body forward. For 10 to 20 seconds, hold.
- Remain erect and repeat on the opposite side.