You may be someone who works in an office, staring at a computer. Or you may be someone who stands all day, lifting heavy weights, and doing strenuous work. However, if you have a condition called Ankylosing Spondylitis, you probably know how challenging it is to keep up with work from morning to night. Working with back pain and stiffness is not easy. But don't worry, let's see how we can make work a little easier with this condition.
First of all, what is ankylosing spondylitis (AS)?
Simply put, Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a type of arthritis. It is sometimes called Bechterew's disease. The main thing that happens in this condition is that the vertebrae in your spine become fused together and become stiff. This makes it difficult to keep your back straight, you may gradually hunch forward, and your flexibility decreases.
In addition to this back problem, there are other symptoms.
- Feeling pain or discomfort in the ribs, hip, and shoulder joints.
- Painful inflammation of the eyes.
When you have symptoms like these, it's hard to imagine that you can overcome the challenges of your job with just the medication your doctor prescribes and physical therapy. That's why it's so important to be proactive. There are things you can do to help ease the discomfort your body is feeling. You may also need to ask your employer for accommodations to help you do your job properly.
What do studies say about how this situation affects employment?
It's really not a good idea to put up with this pain and try to work as if nothing happened. Take a look at this data:
- About half of people with AS experience some form of instability in the workplace.
- Between 10% and 20% of AS patients experience some form of work-related disability , especially in physically demanding jobs.
- About one in seven AS patients has to change their job or reduce their work load because of the disease.
- It is also reported that one-third of those who are hospitalized due to worsening symptoms are forced to leave their jobs before retirement age .
This information shows that this is not something to be taken lightly, right? That's why it's so important to listen to your body.
Simple changes you can make yourself
One study found that people with AS were able to reduce their work-related distractions by creatively incorporating solutions into their work environment. No matter what type of job you do, these tips can help you.
| Tip | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Adjusting the chair | If you have a desk job, adjust the backrest of your chair so that your spine is straight and your shoulders are straight. Adjust the height of your chair so that your knees are at or slightly above your hips when your feet are on the floor. Never slouch. |
| Relief for the back | If you feel like your chair isn't providing enough support for your back, consider rolling up a towel or placing a small pillow under your back. If possible, use a lumbar support pillow specifically designed for the back. |
| Being on the move | If your job requires you to sit for long periods of time, set aside small intervals during your workday to get up and walk around. Get up from your desk regularly and take a short break. Be sure to take a short walk during lunchtime. |
| Posture check | When you go to the bathroom, check your back in the mirror to make sure it's straight. If possible, tell a friend at the office to give you a little signal if you see yourself slouching during a meeting. |
| Setting the table | When sitting, you should be able to rest your forearms flat on the table without any strain. If you are using a computer, your wrists should be straight, your fingers relaxed, and your eyes should be level with the top of the screen. |
| Stretching | Ask your physical therapist about simple exercises that are right for you. There are exercises that you can do even if you sit all day, drive, or lift weights. |
| When lifting weights | Use both hands when lifting heavy objects. If possible, lift with both hands. Keep the object close to your body to reduce stress on your joints. Whenever possible, push instead of lift. |
Benefits available from the workplace
What if you can't make these changes on your own? Then you'll have to talk to your boss or HR department about this.
Do these things before speaking.
For about a week, keep a journal of your daily activities. That is, write down what activities increase your pain and discomfort. This will help you pinpoint your problems.
Then, submit a written request for the accommodations you need. It is very important to include a letter from your doctor confirming your AS status with the request.
Organizations generally have a duty to provide "reasonable accommodations" to employees who need to work with their medical conditions. For example, they can request things like an ergonomic workstation or some flexibility in work hours.
If you are unable to work due to AS pain and discomfort and your leave has expired, check with your organization about medical leave or other leave options available to you.
What if you are unable to work?
In the worst case scenario, AS can make you unable to work at all. AS is a debilitating condition that falls under the category of inflammatory arthritis.
In this situation, you can talk to your doctor to see if you can get any relief or assistance from the government or through your insurance. It is also a good idea to seek expert legal advice on such matters if necessary.
Don't forget, living with AS is a big challenge. So don't try to be a hero by enduring the pain at work. Make your work environment comfortable for you, and never be afraid or ashamed to ask for help. You have the right to enjoy your job.
Take-Home Message
- Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is not just back pain, it is a condition that can have a major impact on your work and life.
- Instead of enduring the pain, start making simple changes you can make in the workplace today.
- Small things like adjusting your chair and table, moving around frequently, and paying attention to your posture can make a big difference.
- If these things aren't enough to do on your own, don't be afraid to talk to your boss or HR department and ask for the necessary accommodations. A letter from your doctor can be very helpful in this.
- Your health is the most important thing, so never hesitate to get the help you need.
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