Tips to help you manage pain associated with your condition

Pain-Managment-RA

Pain associated with your ax-SpA is a symptom that can be difficult to manage. If you are struggling to deal with pain, speak to your doctor, they can advise you about the best ways to help manage your pain. Below is a list of ways that may help to manage pain associated with your condition. Speak to your doctor to see what methods are most appropriate for you.

 

Alternate between hot and cold

While the benefits of heat and cold are yet to be proven, they are safe when used carefully and can provide soothing effects. Cold packs can help to numb the feelings of pain, and heat packs relax the muscles and stimulate blood circulation.1

Soaking in warm water reduces the force of gravity compressing your joints, offers 360-support for limbs, can reduce swelling and can increase circulation. The maximum benefit of a hot bath occurs after 20 minutes. Applying a heat pack or placing a hot water bottle over the painful area for 15 minutes may also help soothe the pain.1,2

If the joints feel hot and swollen, applying a cold pack to the area for 15 minutes may help to numb the pain and reduce swelling. Before reapplying hot and cold packs, make sure the temperature of your skin has returned to normal, to prevent any tissue damage.1,2

 

Breathing exercises

Deep breathing exercises can help to maintain chest expansion of the rib cage, keeping the rib cage and chest flexible.3

 

Exercise or stretch

Simple stretching exercises or low-intensity exercise could help to relieve pain and stiffness in the joints.1 For examples of stretching or low-intensity exercises, see the Exercise page of this website.

 

Investing in a good night's sleep

Lying still for too long contributes to painful inflammation and stiffness, which makes some people with ax-SpA wake up in the second half of the night. A firm mattress, a flat pillow or no pillow at all may help in such circumstances.3,4

 

Distracting yourself

It’s often easier said than done, but if pain strikes, it may help to find something to take the mind off the pain by directing focus elsewhere. For example, consider ringing a friend for a chat or reading a good book.

 

Physical or occupational therapy

Regular visits to a physiotherapy clinic, especially during the early stages of disease, can help the physiotherapist reassess mobility of the spine, adjust exercises and help with staying motivated. Simple tasks such as cooking or cleaning can sometimes be difficult to do and may cause pain. Occupational therapy may help you to learn how to change some daily behaviours to reduce pain and strain on the back.5

 

Complementary or alternative therapies

Some people find that the following complementary or alternative therapies can help to alleviate pain:1

 

Speak to your doctor

If you are still experiencing pain despite being on treatment, or if you are noticing new pain, speak to your doctor. They can advise you about the best ways to help manage your pain, and there could be additional pain relief options available.

Remember, you are currently making a lot of changes aimed at improving your overall health. While you might not feel great today, this could change and every effort you make can have a positive impact.

References: 1. Arthritis Australia. Dealing with pain. Available from: arthritisaustralia.com.au/managing-arthritis/living-with-arthritis/dealing-with-pain/ Accessed: August 2025. 2. Arthritis Foundation. Heat therapy helps relax stiff joints. Available from: arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/managing-pain/pain-relief-solutions/heat-therapy-helps-relax-stiff-joints Accessed: August 2025. 3. Arthritis Foundation. Treatment options for axial spondyloarthritis. Available from: arthritis.org/health-wellness/treatment/treatment-plan/disease-management/treatment-options-for-axial-spondyloarthritis Accessed: August 2023. 4. Creaky Joints. The 10 worst side effects of ankylosing spondylitis and how to cope with them. Available from: creakyjoints.org/about-arthritis/axial-spondyloarthritis/axspa-symptoms/managing-ankylosing-spondylitis-side-effects/ Accessed: August 2025. 5. Arthritis Australia. Taking control of your ankylosing spondylitis. Available from: arthritisaustralia.com.au/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Ankylosing-Spondylitis-WEB-2019.pdf Accessed: August 2025. AC-005092-00. AU-RNQ-250086. August 2025.