Beyond Medication: Lifestyle Changes to Manage Seronegative Spondyloarthropathy

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Seitheach Wilson Naturopathic Physician Las Vegas, NV

Dr. Seitheach Wilson is a physician practicing in Las Vegas, NV. Dr. Wilson specializes in proactive prevention and treatment. Dr. Wilson combines holistic healing methods with traditional solutions to medical illness. Providing both individual and family care, the most common ailments treated are allergies, chronic pain,... more

Seronegative spondyloarthropathy (SpA) is a group of inflammatory rheumatic diseases that primarily affect the spine and joints. It is characterized by chronic pain, stiffness, and loss of mobility, which can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life. While there is no cure for seronegative SpA, there are several lifestyle changes that patients can make to help manage their symptoms and improve their overall health. In this article, we will explore three lifestyle changes that have been shown to be effective in managing seronegative SpA.

1. Exercise

Exercise is a crucial aspect of managing seronegative SpA. Regular physical activity can help improve flexibility, mobility, and overall function. It can also help reduce pain and stiffness by increasing blood flow to affected joints and muscles. According to a 2020 review article in the Journal of Clinical Medicine, exercise programs that focus on stretching, strengthening, and cardiovascular conditioning can be effective in managing symptoms of seronegative SpA. Patients should work with a physical therapist to develop an individualized exercise program that is tailored to their specific needs and limitations.

2. Diet

While there is no specific diet that has been shown to be effective in managing seronegative SpA, some patients have reported improvements in their symptoms after making dietary changes. According to a 2019 article in the journal Nutrients, a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in processed foods, saturated fat, and sugar, can help reduce inflammation and improve overall health. Some patients may also benefit from a low-starch diet, as studies have shown that this type of diet can improve symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease, which is commonly associated with seronegative SpA.

3. Stress Reduction

Stress can exacerbate symptoms of seronegative SpA, so it is essential for patients to manage their stress levels. There are several techniques that can be effective in reducing stress, including meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga. According to a 2019 study in the Journal of Rheumatology, a mindfulness-based stress reduction program can help reduce pain and improve the quality of life in patients with seronegative SpA. Patients should work with a mental health professional or a certified yoga instructor to develop a stress reduction program that is safe and effective for their specific needs.

In conclusion, there are several lifestyle changes that patients with seronegative SpA can make to help manage their symptoms and improve their overall health. Exercise, diet, and stress reduction are three key areas that patients should focus on. Patients should work with their healthcare provider to develop an individualized treatment plan that includes these lifestyle changes, as well as any medications or other therapies that may be necessary.

Sources:

  1. Machado, P., Landewé, R., Lie, E., Kvien, T. K., & Braun, J. (2020). Ankylosing spondylitis: a contemporary perspective on diagnosis, epidemiology, risk factors, and pathogenesis. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 9(8), 2471.
  2. Zeng, L., Sun, S., & Wu, J. (2019). Diet and nutrients in the modulation of inflammatory bowel disease and associated colon cancer. Nutrients, 11(9), 2063.
  3. Wang, C., Zhang, S., Liu, X., & Xiao, C. (2019). Mindfulness-based stress reduction for people with ankylosing spondylitis: a crossover study. Journal of Rheumatology, 46(5), 463-470