Life with AS

I have pain all the time and it makes me feel depressed, so I think the condition has taken a little bit over my life and I would love to change that.

I have just joined so was unable to comment earlier. I have had AS for many years and due to numerous GP's failing to diagnose the problem not only suffered uneccessary pain but lost some mobility due to the ankylosing process.  Eventually I went private and was quickly diagnosed.  Initially I was quite depressed about the outcome but once I got used to the idea I started to fight  back.   I was medicated with "nabumetone" which is a "NASAID" and does have some side effects but what a difference they made to my life.  Pain was a thing of the past.     At the same time I was put in touch with local hospital physiotherapy department who were brilliant. I say were because I have since moved house and the level of support I get now leaves a lot to be desired.  However once I knew what I was dealing with I started on a twice a week minimum gym programme. Mainly using weights to strengthen muscle.  This helps in two ways.  First if the body is supported rather than hanging, pain is reduced considerably. Secondly strengthening the muscles helps prevent the characteristic stoop.   More than a foot of my spine is rigid yet I am not stooped and will do all I can to not become so.   I am now turned 70 and suffered from being about 35.  I was 55 when diagnosed so know what long term pain feels like and how debilitating it can be.    Hope this help

Pain is the worst to fight against with, but I try to maintain positive all the time, though lately it's been really difficult

My AS is not severe, according to my doctor, but I'm scared of how severe it may get lately. Diagnosed 1 year ago.

How mluch worse does it get with time?