AS is a form of arthritis that causes inflammation in the joints and ligaments of the spine, resulting in back pain. “Typically, when people with AS wake up in the morning, they have morning stiffness and pain, especially in the lower back,” says Orrin Troum, MD, a rheumatologist at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California. Although morning stiffness can improve as the day goes on, you may still experience back pain, as well as other symptoms. As AS progresses, it’s possible to develop peripheral arthritis in surrounding areas of the body, such as your hips, knees, and ankles, which can also become swollen and inflamed. “Let’s say somebody wanted to pick something up very quickly, and they’ve had spondylitis for a long time and their back doesn’t bend. That can throw off somebody’s balance, too,” says Dr. Troum. Despite these challenges, your home should be a place of convenience, comfort, and safety. And it can be, with the right strategies. To start, keep your walkways clear of clutter as much as possible, and place anything that you don’t need often in cabinets, in drawers, or on shelves, says Brittany Ferri, PhD, , an occupational therapist (OT) and adviser at Medical Solutions BCN in Rochester, New York. “Also, ensure all wires are secured and safely stored where no one can trip on them,” Dr. Ferri adds. Rather than holding on to furniture when walking around, use assistive devices, and keep items you use frequently within arm’s reach. Here are more tips that can make every room in your house more comfortable.
Bedroom Modification Tips
Consider buying an adjustable bed, which you can raise or lower as needed. “You might get an adjustable hospital bed, or your bed should come with bed bars and nearby grab bars to help you pull yourself up from laying down,” says Ferri. Bea Caillet, 40, a food blogger in Paris, France, has lived with AS since she was young. “I bought an adjustable bed in order to be able to raise my feet up a little bit to ease the pain in my lower back,” Caillet says. “The adjustable bed and an excellent mattress were a big investment and worth every penny.”Change up your mattress. Troum suggests getting a firm (but not stiff) mattress and replacing it every 10 years so it doesn’t sag in the middle.Add more pillows to your bed. Rather than purchasing one type of pillow, go for an assortment. “Pillows should be a mix of firm and soft to allow for sufficient support and comfort,” says Ferri.Keep a heating pad next to your bed. Applying heat to your back for 15 to 20 minutes before getting out of bed might help ease morning stiffness. “Heat helps, whether it be by the shower or by heating pad,” says Troum.
