How do you control it???

Lauren,
I've learned to live with a lot of pain. I exercise as much as I can. I've learned not to push anything too far. Some days exercise is very, very minimal; other days I will actually workout. Yoga or just stretching out is very helpful. My body tells me what I can do and I listen to it. I also try to eat right and try to maintain a healthy weight. Beyond that, I have had steroid injections but I do not like them. I am on a high daily dose of medication for pain. I also dislike it, but for now I am taking it. If I were not, I would not be able to walk or do much of anything. I do not like the options of the other medications that are out there to help. Maybe in the future, but they are not for me at this time in my life. I don't want to trade one problem for another and with the amount of side effects I think that's what I would be doing. The best advise I have is to not push yourself until you can't move. Let people know what is going on and that you "just can't do what you use to." Accept help if offered, and be sincerely thankful for it. Slowly change your lifestyle to fit your needs and possible needs in the future. Remember that the people around you may not understand and you can become the teacher. There are some good pamphlets available from the Spondylitis Association of America at there website (http://www.spondylitis.org) on living with AS and on AS in women. I carry them around and let people read them if they are interested. They are also very good for family members, Employers and co-workers, friends, etc. to read first; for the people who are nearest to you, that way they can start to understand what you are going through and give support to you instead of funny looks or remarks. I have three wonderful children who understand and help and support me too. I spend more time thinking about what I have accomplished so far and what I want to do that is truly important instead of trying to fit it all in before I die. It has helped reduce stress in my life which I believe was the biggest "no-no" for my condition. Be patient, smile and laugh, and try to find a way to get rid of the stress.