Alastair’s Story – from diagnosis to winning ‘ultra distance’ races
Sharing the story below is something I would probably never have done myself, but my parent’s encouragement persuaded me otherwise. Hopefully, it can provide a little hope to other NASS members and particularly the younger demographic, of which I am part, who are...
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From small achievements to Swim Serpentine – Taking part in sport with AS
I’ve always enjoyed taking part in and watching sport even though I’ve never been particularly good at it! My Dad taught me to swim as a child and we spent many a Saturday afternoon together watching my local football team, Ipswich Town, while school holidays saw my...
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How to improve your neck rotation
At the RNHRD we use a hold-relax technique to stretch tight muscles and improve flexibility. The principle behind this stretching technique is that a muscle will relax further after it has tightened and you can stretch it more fully. The sequence can seem a bit complicated but we see good results, especially with neck range of movement.
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Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with ankylosing spondylitis: a journey from agony to championship aspirations
For a very long time I didn’t know what was wrong. I went to all kind of doctors, had all kind of treatments, as probably lot of you can speak about. I had years of agony, depression, and awful thoughts. There was a 3 month period at one time, I had to call an ambulance at least once a week. I was working, but my employer had a hard time understanding me. I have been called a hypochondriac, and all sorts of awful things.Finally after 6 years of struggle I have been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis.
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7 easy ways to get moving at work
It’s hard to make sure you are exercising when you are working 9 to 5. We’ve put together some simple ways of getting moving during the day.
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What a person living with axial SpA (ankylosing spondylitis) can expect from their first visit to an osteopath
I understand that when you’re in pain because of axial SpA (ankylosing spondylitis), it can be a nervous experience seeing an osteopath or other healthcare practitioner for the first time. I hope that I can demystify it a little by explaining what happens in a typical osteopathic consultation.
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parkrun for people with ankylosing spondylitis
Parkruns are fun and sociable opportunities for people with ankylosing spondylitis to participate in some physical activity. They are free 5k events, coordinated entirely by local volunteers, that take place every Saturday morning in 540 parks and open spaces across the UK. Parkrun is open to everyone and is whatever you want it to be – you can walk, run or volunteer – and each event finishes with a chat and a cuppa.
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Ankylosing spondylitis did not beat me, it made me stronger and fitter!
I have been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis 20 years ago. I was a young guy but unfit, lazy and heavier than I am now. Who knew that AS would be a blessing in disguise. It turned out to be my driver and motivation to keep stronger and fitter.
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Changing life through Zumba!
Life is full of unexpected things. Sometimes the unexpected can change your whole attitude towards the world in a good or a bad way. To my relief, having AS didn’t mean I had to give up dancing and along the way I also discovered something that changed my life: Zumba.
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Running with Ankylosing Spondylitis
Running may not be a physical activity for everyone with ankylosing spondylitis. The high impact of this exercise can cause extra stress on the joints of the legs and the spine. However, many people not only find running beneficial but clearly develop a passion for it! If you want to run with AS these are our top tips:
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