You may be someone who sits in an office chair. Or you may be someone who walks and lifts weights all day. No matter what your job is, if you have Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS), you know how challenging it can be to work from 9 am to 5 pm. It's not easy to get through the day with back pain, stiffness, and the inability to move. But don't worry, there are many things that can help you succeed in your job even with this condition.
What exactly is Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS)?
Simply put, this is a type of arthritis that affects the spine. It is sometimes called Bechterew's disease. In this condition, there is inflammation between the vertebrae in your spine, and over time, the vertebrae start to fuse together, forming a single piece. This can cause the spine to lose its flexibility and become curved forward (scoliosis).
In addition to this, there are several other symptoms:
- Pain or discomfort in the ribs, hip joints, and shoulder joints.
- Inflammation of the eyes causes redness, pain, and difficulty seeing light.
With symptoms like these, it's hard to imagine that simply taking medication or going to physical therapy won't interfere with your work. The most important thing is to think proactively about this. You need to take steps to minimize the discomfort your body is experiencing. You may also need to ask your workplace for special accommodations to help you do your job properly.
Why is it not good to tolerate pain?
It's not a good idea to just go about your business thinking, "Oh... this is okay," and just keep going through the pain without making any changes. If you look at what research shows, you'll see how foolish it is to just tolerate this.
Many people with AS experience some form of job instability, and between 10% and 20% of people in physically demanding jobs are at risk of some form of work disability.
About one in seven people with the disease have to reduce their workload or change jobs altogether. Studies have also shown that one in three people who are hospitalized due to worsening symptoms have to leave their jobs before retirement age. So, it's no wonder this is something you shouldn't take lightly, right?
Simple changes you can make in your workplace
One study found that people with AS significantly reduced their work-related disruptions by creatively adapting their work environment. No matter what type of job you do, here are some tips to help you manage your AS condition.
| The change that can be made | How to do it (simple) |
|---|---|
| Adjust your chair. | If you work at a desk, adjust the back of your chair so that your back is straight and your shoulders are square. With your feet on the floor, adjust the height of your chair so that your knees are at or slightly above your hips. Avoid slouching. |
| Give your back extra support. | If the support provided by the chair is not enough, use a rolled towel, a small pillow, or a lumbar support pillow. |
| Keep moving. | If your job requires you to sit for long periods of time, set aside time during your work day to get up and walk around. Get up from your desk regularly and take short breaks. Make it a habit to walk around during that time and during your lunch break. |
| Be careful about posture. | When you go to the bathroom, look in the mirror to see if your back is straight or slouched. You can also ask a friend to tell you if you're slouching during a meeting. |
| Keep your desk tidy. | When sitting, you should be able to rest your forearms horizontally on the table without any strain. When using a computer, your wrists should be straight and your fingers should be relaxed. It is best to have the top edge of the computer screen at eye level. |
| Do stretching exercises correctly. | Ask your doctor or physical therapist to teach you some simple stretching exercises that you can do. Don't forget to do these even if you sit all day, drive, or lift weights. |
| Be careful when lifting heavy objects. | Use both hands to lift weights. If possible, lift weights with both hands, not just your fingers. Keep the load close to your body. This will reduce the pressure on your joints. Push and pull whenever possible. Minimize lifting. |
Don't be afraid to ask for help from the workplace.
If you've done these things on your part and are still having trouble keeping up with your work, then the next step is to talk to your boss about it.
How do you deal with this?
- Prepare: Before you talk to your boss, spend a week or two writing down what you do and what makes you feel worse. This will give you a clearer picture of where the problem lies.
- Make a written request: Make a written request for the accommodations you need. It is very important to include a letter from a doctor confirming that you have AS. For example, you can ask for an ergonomic chair or desk. Or you can ask for a slight change in your work hours.
In Sri Lanka, you have the right to request these kinds of accommodations at the workplace for reasonable reasons. So don't be afraid or embarrassed to speak up about this.
What if you are unable to continue working?
In some severe cases, AS can make it impossible for you to continue working. In such cases, it is important to know about your social security benefits or insurance options. Before making such a decision, it is best to talk to your doctor and, if necessary, seek legal advice.
Remember, managing AS takes effort. Don't just grit your teeth and endure the pain. Be proactive in changing your workplace to make it more comfortable for you. Don't be afraid to ask for help. You have every right to enjoy your work life.
Take-Home Message
- Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a serious arthritis condition that affects the spine. Don't ignore the pain and discomfort it causes while working.
- Adjust simple things like your work chair and desk to make them comfortable for your body. Use extra support for your back.
- Don't stay in the same position for long periods of time. Move frequently, get up and walk around, and do appropriate exercises as directed by your doctor.
- Use proper posture when lifting heavy objects. Avoid lifting heavy objects as much as possible.
- Don't be afraid to talk openly with your boss about the accommodations you need. A letter from a doctor will be a great help in this.
- Always follow the medication and treatment prescribed by your doctor exactly.
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