How I Manage Daily Pain with Ankylosing Spondylitis

Daily Pain Management Tips for Ankylosing Spondylitis: What’s Worked for Me

Living with Ankylosing Spondylitis in Real Life

When it comes to managing the pain of Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS), I can only speak from my own experience — because every case is different. Some work desk jobs, others are retired, and in my case, I spend long hours behind the wheel, which brings its own challenges.

This post is a down-to-earth look at what’s helped me over the years, and what hasn’t.

Over-the-Counter Painkillers: What I Learned

Like many, I started with common over-the-counter medications:

• Paracetamol

• Aspirin

• Ibuprofen (Nurofen)

Some helped a little, but side effects were often worse than the pain:

• Paracetamol left me feeling emotionally flat.

• Aspirin was hard on the stomach.

• Ibuprofen affected my bladder, causing constant urgency — not ideal when driving.

The Turning Point: Anti-Inflammatory Medication

Things changed when an older, no-nonsense GP prescribed a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).

• I was prescribed Arthrexin (indomethacin) 25mg, taken 3 to 4 times a day.

• It didn’t just dull the pain — it reduced the inflammation.

• I had no major side effects, and it allowed me to stop all other painkillers.

For me, this was a game changer!

Hydration: The Underrated Ally

What I drink now plays a huge role in managing inflammation. Here’s what I’ve found:

✅ Works:

• 1–2 litres of water or watered-down 100% fruit juice

❌ Avoid:

• Coffee (too acidic)

• Most teas

• Fizzy soft drinks

• Sugary or artificial fruit drinks

These seemed to worsen my symptoms and create more stiffness or imbalance.

Everyone’s Chemistry Is Different

This is what worked for me. Others may find relief with different medications, supplements, or even biologics. But I hope sharing this gives someone else a helpful idea to explore with their own doctor.

What’s Coming Next

Future posts will cover more of my AS journey, including:

• How I manage flare-ups

• Simple stretching and mobility routines

• Tips on posture and ergonomics

• My experience with diet and supplements

If you’re new to this diagnosis, just know: you’re not alone, and there are things that can help.

Wishing you strength and relief – Clive