Dumbbell training in Bekhterev's disease makes sense

Special dumbbell training in ankylosing spondylitis relieves discomfort

08/05/2013

Ankylosing spondylitis is a rheumatic disease in which the spine becomes stiffened with associated chronic pain. A recent study found that special weight training can help those affected.

The previously recommended aqua-gym, which relieves the disease-typical stiffness, is now complemented by a second, efficient method of treatment and promises many sufferers more quality of life. The so-called progressive exercise training with dumbbells on a gym ball could help, says Edmund Edelmann of the professional association of German Rheumatologists in Bad Aibling. According to the new study, this type of activity has a positive effect on patients. You become more mobile and the function and strength of the muscles is significantly improved. The gym was a recommended addition or alternative to water sports.

The study was attended by 30 people. All participants had to do eight dumbbell exercises on the ball twice a week, for example rowing or squatting. After 4 weeks, the weights were then increased. After four months it turned out that these patients were able to do a physical fitness test better than the 30 patients in the control group who did not do gymnastics on the ball.

Symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis
Morbus Bechterew patients usually suffer from chronic pain. The middle and lower joints of her spine stiffen more and more. According to Edelmann, the symptoms are particularly severe after rest periods. Through exercise, they let something go. For those affected, however, increasing stiffening becomes a problem, as you find it increasingly difficult to alleviate their discomfort through exercise. Ankylosing spondylitis is also referred to as stiffening vertebral inflammation or ankylosing spondyloarthritis, SpA for short. (Fr)

Image: Stephanie Hofschlaeger