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Physical therapy for Spondylitis

 Spondylitis, a condition characterised by inflammation of the vertebrae, can benefit from specific exercises prescribed by a physiotherapist. These exercises aim to improve flexibility, strength, and posture while reducing pain and stiffness. Here's a step-by-step guide to some exercises commonly recommended for spondylitis:


1. Warm-up:

  • Begin with a gentle warm-up to increase blood flow to the muscles and prepare your body for exercise. 
  • This can include light cardio activities like walking or stationary cycling for 5-10 minutes.
                                               Physical therapy for Spondylitis


2. Neck Stretch:

  • Sit or stand tall with your shoulders relaxed.
  • Slowly tilt your head to one side, bringing your ear towards your shoulder until you feel a gentle stretch along the side of your neck.
  • Hold the stretch for 15-30 seconds, then return to the starting position.
  • Repeat on the other side.
  • Perform 2-3 sets on each side.

Neck Stretch Exercise

3. Cervical Retraction:

  • Sit or stand with good posture, looking straight ahead.
  • Gently tuck your chin towards your chest, as if making a double chin.
  • Hold this position for a 10-15 seconds, feeling a gentle stretch at the back of your neck.
  • Return to the starting position.
  • Repeat for 10-15 repetitions.

Cervical Retraction


4. Thoracic Extension:

  • Sit on a chair with good posture, placing your hands behind your head.
  • Gently arch your upper back backward, looking up towards the ceiling.
  • Hold the position for a 10-15 seconds, feeling a stretch through your mid-back.
  • Return to the starting position.
  • Repeat for 10-15 repetitions.

Thoracic Extension


5. Cat-Cow Stretch:

  • Start on your hands and knees, with your wrists aligned under your shoulders and knees under your hips.
  • Inhale, arching your back and lifting your head and tailbone towards the ceiling (cow position).
  • Exhale, rounding your spine towards the ceiling, tucking your chin to your chest (cat position).
  • Continue flowing between cat and cow positions for 8-10 repetitions.

Cat-Cow Stretch

6. Pelvic Tilt:

  • Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
  • Gently flatten your lower back against the floor by tilting your pelvis backward.
  • Hold for a 10 seconds, then release.
  • Repeat for 10-15 repetitions.


Pelvic Tilt


7. Leg Raises:

  • Lie on your back with one leg bent and the other straight.
  • Slowly lift your straight leg off the ground, keeping it straight.
  • Hold for a 10 seconds, then lower it back down.
  • Repeat for 10-15 repetitions on each leg.

Leg Raises

8. Bridge:

  • Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor, hip-width apart.
  • Press through your heels to lift your hips off the ground, creating a straight line from your shoulders to your knees.
  • Hold for a 10 seconds, then lower your hips back down.
  • Repeat for 10-15 repetitions.

Bridge Exercise

9. Deep Breathing and Relaxation:

  • Finish your routine with deep breathing exercises and relaxation techniques to help reduce tension and promote overall relaxation.

Deep Breathing and Relaxation

Always consult with a qualified physiotherapist or healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have a medical condition like spondylitis. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific needs and limitations. Additionally, if any exercise causes pain or discomfort, stop immediately and seek guidance from your healthcare provider.



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