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Frequent Contributor
Posts: 104
Registered: ‎01-22-2011

My father has this and I have been looking for help for him. Are there any here with experience regarding this condition?

Esteemed Contributor
Posts: 7,752
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

Unfortunately, there is not a lot that can be done. Anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy. Sometimes they prescribe the new biologics to suppress the immune system. Rarely, surgery to correct fused vertebrae or replace deteriorated joints.

Ice and/or heat can be soothing.

Good luck and God bless.

It's God's job to judge the terrorists. It's our mission to arrange the meeting. U.S. Marines
Honored Contributor
Posts: 18,415
Registered: ‎11-25-2011

I've been hearing about this ALOT on my radio station. It's good that it's getting the attention it deserves. There's a fitness blogger I've been following for years....her name is Marianne Kane from Ireland. About 2yrs ago she came out & described the pain & treatments for AS....it was surprising since she is so incredibly fit & strong. I, personally, do not know of anyone diagnosed with AS....but maybe reading Marianne's story, it might give you & your father hope. Take care.

http://www.myomytv.com/my-dark-passenger-a-life-with-chronic-pain/

Honored Contributor
Posts: 17,073
Registered: ‎09-01-2010

My great uncle was afflicted with this disease in his teenage years, and suffered horribly until his death in the 1950's. Back then there were few treatment options for this relatively rare condition. Uncle Dave walked with a limp, and went from being stoop shouldered to nearly being bent double in his later years. Thus far, this disease has not shown itself in any of his descendants. Based on what I have read about this condition, betteb's information is spot on with what is available today as far as treatment options. Best wishes to your dad with finding relief and other treatment options.