Joint Space reduced-Any other treatment without surgery

[SumitDhiman02]

hello Everyone,
I am Sumit, 22 years of age and suffering from Ankolysing Spondilitis from many years.
As of last 6 months, the pain and swelling is reduced to only Left hip and none of my other joints are affected.
But due to this, the joint space has been reduced much and Rheumatologist has advised me a surgery for replacement.
I wanted to know if there is any treatment that increases joint space and  I can bypass the surgery?

[namnam46]

Hi Sumit. :)

I, too, want to let you know that we are glad you found our Forum.

I'm so very sorry that you have these problems at such a young age.  Tuck's correct, there's nothing you can do to increase space in your hip joint or any joint that I know of.  

I was diagnosed with Osteoarthritis when I was very young and needed a hip replacement when I was 28 years old. This was in 1974 and the hip joints were relatively new and wouldn't have lasted long.  Therefore, my Doctor had me put off the surgery as long as I could stand the pain.  I was able to put it off another 7 years until 1981.  I really waited too long as there was no hip joint left but the surgery was still a huge success as that implant lasted for 26 years f3omthe age of 35 until I was 61.  I wore 4 inch heels danced did everything that I'd always done and with no pain.  These days the joints are even better and when ever you decide to do it I feel you'll be very happy that you did it.  There won't be anymore pain and you will have your life back.  

You need to find out all you options and make an informed decision based on all the knowledge that you discover.  Let your Dr.'s help to guide you as they want an excellent result for you.  

I wish you the VERY BEST!!  I'll be looking for your updates on how you are doing and what you have decided to do for now.  :)
                                          ......... Sherry  :)

[Tuckamore]

I'm not aware of any thing that can increase "joint space". Your hip joint is the largest joint in the body and can be so painful.

Absolutely PT (physical therapy) and the other things mentioned in the above response can be helpful - but it won't replace a badly damaged joint.

You're right to search for other options before agreeing to surgical intervention. There are injectables such as steroids and joint lubricating agents that may also help delay surgery. You are sooo young.

I would suggest a second opinion. Make sure there are no other choices. Please let us know how you are doing.

Best of Luck.
~Tuck

[drpssudhakar]

Physical therapy can provide a number of benefits, from pain relief to improved physical strength and flexibility. Your doctor may recommend that you meet with a physical therapist to provide you with specific exercises designed for your needs.

Range-of-motion and stretching exercises can help maintain flexibility in your joints and preserve good posture. Proper sleep and walking positions and abdominal and back exercises can help maintain your upright posture.
Most people with ankylosing spondylitis don't need surgery. However, your doctor may recommend surgery if you have severe pain or joint damage, or if your hip joint is so damaged that it needs to be replaced.