Degenerative spondyloarthritis

Degenerative spondyloarthritis is linked to gradual changes in the spine that commonly affect the facet joints, where cartilage wear can contribute to pain, stiffness and reduced mobility. Disc-related degeneration may also coexist and can increase load on spinal joints, influencing how well you tolerate positions and daily activities. Many people have degenerative findings without significant symptoms, but when symptoms occur they are often more noticeable with prolonged sitting or standing, bending or twisting while gentle movement may reduce stiffness.

In physiotherapy we plan rehabilitation around what limits you in real life: work, driving, sleep, stairs, walking or lifting. We focus on gradually restoring movement, building strength and postural endurance and improving posture and movement control to reduce flare-ups over time.

A key point with degenerative spondyloarthritis is that symptoms are often not linear. You may have good periods and flare periods after a heavier week with more work, driving or poor sleep. That is where strategy matters: learning your personal limits and building them up gradually without sharp spikes. We also guide practical workstation changes, short movement breaks and ways to spread load throughout the day to reduce stiffness build-up. The aim is better tolerance to posture and movement and a stronger sense of control over flare-ups.