Navigating Ankylosing Spondylitis

Introduction & Incorporation of…‍

• Symptom tracking/monitoring tools
• Ergonomic and joint protection principles & strategies
• Inflammation management strategies & routines
• Adaptive devices, off-the-shelf & custom-fabricated orthoses/braces
• Skin rash & discomfort management
• Digestive problems, like stomach pain, diarrhea, or irritable bowel syndrome, management

Development of…‍

• Activity analysis & modification skills
• Spine health exercise program
• Flare-up prevention & action plan
• Back & neck stiffness and heel & elbow tendinitis management skills
• Sleep-promoting habits and insomnia management skills
• Sustainable, inflammation-friendly dietary habits & loss of appetite management
• Enjoyable, non-exacerbating physical activity routines

Introduction & Incorporation of…‍

• Fatigue management & energy conservation strategies
• Restorative rest & mind-body techniques
• Pain neuroscience & management strategies
• Concentration, memory, & productivity strategies for “brain fog.”
• Positive self-talk & counterproductive thought pattern management

Development of…‍

• Time management & energy conservations skills and habits
• Headache/migraine trigger awareness & action plan
• Proactive & reactive stress coping strategies
• Thought patterns that promote self-esteem, self-efficacy & feeling of contro

Self-advocacy & navigating social obligations in…‍

• Home role(s) as … caregiver, parent, spouse, homemaker, wage earner, etc
• Community role(s) as … volunteer, sport team member, church member, etc
• Work role(s) as … co-worker, employee, manager, entrepreneur, etc.
• Healthcare role as patient – become your own care manager

Development of…‍

• Assertive communication skills
• Robust social support network with both emotional & practical supports
• Strategies to manage social isolation or loneliness
• Practical modifications to home, community, & work environment
• Disclosure plan to inform/educate family, friends, & coworkers on your condition and needs

Values-based living by means of …‍

• Identifying core values, one’s “North Star.”
• Reflecting on how closely lifestyle and daily decisions align with core values
• Accepting new limitations & grieving “loss” of past self
• Setting realistic, but aspirational goals to work toward living in congruence with values
• Structuring daily activities to align with values, “redesigning” your lifestyle 

Exploration of…‍

• Worries concerning long-term consequences & condition progression
• Ways illness intrudes on your life, lifestyle, & well-being
• Practices & activities that promote gratitude and hope
• Balancing obligatory, committed, & discretionary activities