Problems with Ankylosing Spondylitis

[econ0526]

I am a 21 year old male and have had intermittent back pain since I was 16. The pain is usually between my should blades and less frequently in lower back and hips. My pain started as a very sharp almost debilitating pain in my lower back during a basketball practice when I was 16. Since then the initial pain has never returned to its initial intensity buts provides consistent discomfort. My general practitioner at the time suggested that it could possibly be AS. In addition I frequently feel discomfort in my eyes and have a hard time looking at computer screens for prolonged periods. With a family history of AS (father) and with my described symptoms I am worried I may also have AS. However, I am currently a college student and financially unable to see a rheumatologist for proper diagnosis. My question is regarding how to proceed. If I assume it is AS, should I discontinue my current habits of weight training and running? Also what is the risk of treating the pain with Ibuprofen? Is Ibuprofen a feasible treatment for the back pain, even if it is not AS? Also, I have a good stretching regimen and do yoga. I have no signs of stooping or loss of posture. Any advice would be helpful.

[txsilver]

Excellent points, Cindee.  High doses of any NSAID are always prescribed with something to protect your stomach.  It is important to have doctor supervison of any long term medications.

[Cindee56]

Just a warning about the Advil--you can take it, but be careful of using really high doses.  I was prescribed very high dose ibuprophen for about a year, and I got stomach ulcers from it.  Maybe switch off with Tylenol sometimes if the pain is mild, of course, too much Tylenol is not good either.

I would not lift heavy weights--maybe do lighter weights with more reps.  The yoga is good.  Running--it's hard on the knees and back I think.  Maybe you can cross-train and do some bike and elliptical.

[txsilver]

AS, like any condition, is best diagnosed and treated early.  If you think you have AS, I strongly suggest you get some kind of health insurance as, after diagnosis, you will have a tough time getting insurance other than through a group policy.
If ibuprofen provides relief, that is a good indication that you may be dealing with a mild case or something completely different.
Stay as physically active as you can.  Since you are in pain, you should probably get with a therapist or trainer to determine what exercises are going to be beneficial to you and not harm any conditions you have, AS or otherwise.