Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a type of arthritis that causes inflammation, pain, and stiffness, primarily in the spine and pelvis. Over time, the bones in the spine can fuse, leading to a stiff and inflexible spine. It often starts in young adults and mainly affects men.

In Ayurveda, AS is considered a "Vata" disorder, where an imbalance in the Vata dosha (related to movement and dryness) affects the joints and spine, causing pain and stiffness. Ayurveda sees it as a condition of "Ama" (toxins) building up in the body due to poor digestion and impaired metabolism, leading to joint inflammation.

It is a genetic factor, especially the HLA-B27 gene, is linked to AS. AS is an autoimmune condition, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue.

Types of Ankylosing Spondylitis

AS doesn’t have specific subtypes, but it mainly affects areas like:

• Axial (spine): Affects the spine and pelvis.
• Peripheral (limbs): May affect shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles.

Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis

Early Symptoms: Back pain and stiffness, especially in the lower back, hips, and buttocks, often worse in the morning or after inactivity.

Progressive Symptoms: Pain spreading up the spine, limited movement in the spine, fatigue.

Advanced Symptoms: Fusion of spinal bones, leading to a rigid spine, and in severe cases, hunched posture.

The symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) can vary in severity but generally include:

• Lower Back and Hip Pain: Persistent pain and stiffness, especially in the lower back, hips, and buttocks. This pain is usually worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
• Morning Stiffness: Stiffness and pain are often worse in the morning and improve with movement or exercise.
• Spine Pain and Limited Mobility: As AS progresses, the pain may move up the spine, and range of motion may decrease, making it difficult to bend or twist.
• Pain in Other Joints: Some people experience pain in other areas, such as the shoulders, knees, and ribs.
• Fatigue: Persistent tiredness is common due to chronic inflammation in the body.
• Difficulty Breathing: If the ribs are affected, breathing deeply may become painful or restricted.
• Postural Changes: In advanced stages, fusion of the spine can lead to a hunched or forward-bent posture (kyphosis).
• Eye Inflammation (Uveitis): Some individuals may experience inflammation in the eye, causing redness, pain, and sensitivity to light.

Ayurvedic treatment of AS

Panchakarma Therapy: Detoxification therapies, especially Basti (medicated enemas), help cleanse the body, improve joint flexibility, and relieve stiffness.

Abhyanga (Oil Massage): Regular warm oil massage with herbal oils like Mahanarayan oil or Dhanwantharam oil to reduce stiffness, nourish joints, and ease pain.

Yoga and Pranayama: Gentle stretching exercises and breathing techniques help maintain flexibility, improve posture, and manage pain.

Herbs useful to treat AS:

Shallaki (Boswellia serrata):

Known for its strong anti-inflammatory properties, Shallaki can reduce pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints.

Dashmool:

A traditional blend of ten roots, Dashmool helps balance Vata dosha, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain in the body.

Nirgundi ATHEROSCLEROSIS ((Vitex negundo):

Has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and swelling in joints.

Guggul (Commiphora mukul):

Effective in relieving pain and inflammation, Guggul also helps detoxify and strengthen the bones and joints.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera):

Reduces inflammation and supports joint health while also boosting energy and reducing fatigue.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale):

Known for its anti-inflammatory effects, ginger can be taken as tea or added to food to help manage pain and improve digestion.