Ease stiffness and pain with expert physical therapy for ankylosing spondylitis at HWY Physical Therapy Clinic in Salem, Oregon.
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) causes stiffness and pain that can limit daily movement. Without proper treatment, the spine can become less flexible and posture can worsen.
Physical therapy is one of the most effective ways to manage these symptoms. At HWY Physical Therapy in Salem, Oregon, our licensed therapists design personalized programs to improve posture, increase mobility, and reduce pain.
Each session focuses on safe movement and strengthening exercises that protect the spine and ease discomfort. Whether you are newly diagnosed or already managing AS, physical therapy helps you move better and live with less pain.
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory condition that mainly affects the spine and sacroiliac joints. Over time, this inflammation can cause sections of the spine to fuse, reducing flexibility and leading to a forward-stooped posture.
People with AS often experience morning stiffness, back pain, and limited range of motion that worsens without treatment.
AS is a form of arthritis that targets the joints where the spine meets the pelvis. It commonly appears in early adulthood and tends to progress slowly.
Inflammation of the spinal joints triggers pain and stiffness that can extend to the hips, shoulders, and ribs. Early signs often include persistent lower back pain that improves with movement but not with rest.
As inflammation continues, it can lead to the fusion of vertebrae. This limits flexibility and can cause a rigid, curved spine. The muscles around the spine also weaken, which further affects posture and balance.
Over time, this combination makes it difficult to perform simple movements such as bending, turning, or standing upright for long periods.
Starting physical therapy early helps preserve spinal movement and reduces stiffness before permanent fusion occurs. A therapist can teach safe stretching and strengthening exercises that protect the joints and improve posture.
Early intervention also helps manage pain naturally, reducing the need for medications.
Physical therapy focuses on movement and posture correction, which are key to maintaining mobility in the long term.
Patients who start therapy early often experience better function and less pain as the condition progresses.
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) can be difficult to identify in its early stages. Many people mistake the stiffness and back pain for a simple muscle strain. Knowing when to seek medical help and start physical therapy can prevent long-term joint damage.
Early signs of AS include back stiffness that lasts more than three months, pain that improves with movement, and fatigue that does not go away. Some people also feel pain in the hips, shoulders, or heels. If these symptoms persist, it is important to get evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Physical therapy should begin as soon as the diagnosis is confirmed. Starting treatment early helps preserve spinal movement and prevents posture changes that develop over time.
Doctors usually diagnose AS through a combination of physical exams, medical history, and imaging tests. X-rays can show early changes in the sacroiliac joints. MRI scans are often used to detect inflammation before bone fusion begins. Blood tests may also check for the HLA-B27 gene, which is linked to the condition.
A confirmed diagnosis allows the physical therapist to create a targeted plan that focuses on flexibility and posture correction.
During your first visit, your therapist will assess your movement, pain levels, and posture. They will teach gentle stretches to reduce stiffness and improve breathing capacity. The goal is to create a program that helps you move comfortably and safely.
Patients who start physical therapy soon after diagnosis often report better posture, fewer flare-ups, and more confidence in daily movement.
Physical therapy is a key part of managing ankylosing spondylitis. It helps control pain, maintain spinal flexibility, and prevent posture changes caused by inflammation. A consistent program improves how you move, breathe, and perform daily tasks.
The main goal is to keep your spine flexible and your joints mobile. Therapy also reduces stiffness, strengthens core muscles, and supports better posture. Over time, these changes help relieve pain and make movement easier.
Improved breathing is another important goal. As the ribs stiffen, lung expansion can decrease. Physical therapy uses specific stretching and breathing exercises to maintain chest mobility and improve oxygen flow.
Your therapist may combine several types of exercises:
Range of motion exercises to improve flexibility in the spine and hips.
Core strengthening routines to support the back and reduce stress on inflamed joints.
Posture correction training to keep the spine aligned and prevent slouching.
Low-impact aerobic exercises such as swimming or walking to boost endurance without straining the joints.
Each exercise is designed to match your physical ability and disease stage.
Supervised sessions help you learn correct technique and prevent injury. A therapist monitors your posture and adjusts exercises as needed. This ensures safe progress and steady improvement.
Home programs complement clinic sessions. Once you learn the proper form, you can safely continue exercises at home to maintain flexibility and strength.
Combining both approaches gives you lasting benefits and helps manage symptoms long term.
Research consistently shows that physical therapy helps people with ankylosing spondylitis move better, feel stronger, and experience less pain. Regular sessions support flexibility and help delay spinal stiffness that develops over time.
Several studies have found that structured exercise programs improve posture, spinal mobility, and quality of life. Patients who attend supervised physical therapy sessions show greater progress than those who exercise on their own.
Clinical research also supports combining stretching, strengthening, and aerobic activities. This mix improves muscle balance and joint health while reducing fatigue. Studies published in rehabilitation journals confirm that consistent physical therapy helps maintain movement and slows the disease’s progression.
Many patients report being able to move more easily after just a few weeks of therapy. Pain levels drop, posture improves, and breathing feels easier. Regular sessions also make it simpler to perform everyday activities such as standing, walking, or lifting.
Long-term outcomes are even stronger. People who stick to their therapy plan often maintain better posture, experience fewer flare-ups, and rely less on pain medication.
Physical therapy does not cure ankylosing spondylitis, but it provides the tools to live more comfortably and stay active.
Exercise is essential for managing ankylosing spondylitis. The right movements reduce stiffness, support posture, and keep your spine flexible. Every exercise should be gentle and pain-free. Start slowly and follow your therapist’s guidance to avoid strain.
Stretching helps loosen tight muscles and prevent joint stiffness. Begin each session with light movements to warm up your back and hips.
Neck stretch: Tilt your head side to side to keep neck muscles flexible.
Chest opener: Stand tall, clasp your hands behind your back, and lift your arms slightly to open the chest.
Hip rotation: Lie on your back, bend your knees, and gently roll them from side to side.
Perform these stretches daily to maintain spinal mobility.
Strong core muscles protect your spine and improve balance. Try simple bodyweight exercises like bridges or gentle planks. Keep your spine straight and focus on breathing evenly.
Posture training is also key. Practice standing with your back against a wall, heels and shoulders touching. This helps reinforce proper alignment and prevents slouching.
Aerobic activity keeps your joints healthy and reduces inflammation. Choose low-impact options such as:
Swimming or water aerobics
Walking on flat ground
Stationary cycling
Aim for 20 to 30 minutes of light aerobic exercise most days of the week.
Avoid forcing your body into painful positions or stretching too far. Do not hold your breath during movements. Avoid high-impact workouts like running or jumping, which can worsen joint pain.
Consistent, gentle movement is more effective than intense exercise. Listen to your body and follow your therapist’s plan for the best results.
Every case of ankylosing spondylitis is different. At HWY Physical Therapy in Salem, Oregon, each treatment plan is designed around your specific symptoms, mobility level, and long-term goals. Personalized care helps you progress safely and maintain results over time.
Your first appointment starts with a full evaluation. The therapist reviews your medical history, posture, flexibility, and pain levels. They identify areas of stiffness and imbalance that limit your movement.
Based on this assessment, your therapist creates a custom plan with exercises that improve mobility and strength. You’ll also learn proper posture and breathing techniques to manage daily activities more comfortably.
Therapists at HWY PT use several evidence-based techniques to help you move better and reduce stiffness:
Manual therapy to relax tight muscles and joints
Guided stretching to improve flexibility
Posture retraining to support spinal alignment
Core and balance exercises to stabilize movement
These methods help restore function and reduce the effects of inflammation over time.
HWY PT is trusted for patient-centered care and individualized attention. Each session is supervised by licensed professionals who specialize in spinal and joint conditions.
Located conveniently in the Center 50+, Salem City Building, HWY PT provides expert guidance in a supportive environment. Patients gain strength, confidence, and long-term pain relief through consistent care and education.
Managing ankylosing spondylitis goes beyond physical therapy. Daily habits, posture, and lifestyle choices all affect how you feel and move. Small adjustments can reduce pain, protect your joints, and improve your long-term comfort.
Good posture is one of the most important ways to manage AS. Sit in a chair that supports your lower back and keeps your shoulders relaxed. Keep screens at eye level to prevent slouching.
When sleeping, choose a firm mattress and avoid thick pillows that push the head forward. Try to rest on your back with your spine straight. These changes help prevent the spine from curving over time.
A healthy diet supports joint and muscle function. Focus on foods that fight inflammation, such as fish, leafy greens, berries, and nuts. Limit processed foods, sugar, and alcohol, which can worsen inflammation.
Stay hydrated to keep joints lubricated. If you take medication, follow your doctor’s guidance and pair it with your physical therapy plan for the best results.
Gentle mind-body exercises help control pain and improve flexibility. Try yoga or tai chi for balance and relaxation. Deep breathing exercises also help keep your chest and ribs flexible.
Stress can make pain worse, so include short relaxation sessions throughout your day. These simple routines help you stay calm and keep your body moving comfortably.
Yes. Physical therapy can be safely continued during mild flare-ups under professional supervision. Your therapist will adjust exercises to reduce strain while keeping your joints mobile. Gentle stretching and breathing work are often used to maintain flexibility without increasing pain.
Most patients benefit from one to three sessions per week, depending on their symptoms and stage of progression. Your therapist will suggest a schedule that matches your recovery goals and lifestyle. Regular sessions early on help build a strong foundation for long-term self-management.
Physical therapy cannot reverse fusion once it occurs, but it can prevent further stiffness and help you move more comfortably. Stretching, posture work, and strengthening exercises protect unfused joints and improve daily function.
Even limited visits can help. Your therapist can design a home exercise program that fits your schedule. Consistency matters more than frequency, so daily practice of simple movements can still provide real benefits.
You may not need constant supervision, but ongoing movement and exercise will always be important. Once you learn the correct techniques, maintaining an active lifestyle helps control symptoms and prevent stiffness.
Explore trusted resources to learn more about ankylosing spondylitis and physical therapy:
Exercise and Spondyloarthritis: What You Need to Know – Arthritis Foundation
How Physical Therapy Can Help Ankylosing Spondylitis – WebMD
Stretching Exercises for Ankylosing Spondylitis – Spondylitis Association of America
Each of these sources offers reliable guidance on exercise safety, mobility improvement, and lifestyle management for AS.
If you are living with ankylosing spondylitis, the right physical therapy program can help you move with less pain and greater confidence. At HWY Physical Therapy in Salem, Oregon, our team designs customized plans to restore flexibility, strengthen your spine, and improve posture.
Our therapists work with you one-on-one to track progress, adjust exercises, and teach long-term movement habits that protect your joints. Every program is guided by evidence-based techniques proven to reduce stiffness and improve daily comfort.
Start your path to better mobility today. Call 971-202-1979 or visit Center 50+, Salem City Building, 2615 Portland Rd NE, Salem, OR 97301 to schedule your personalized evaluation.
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