Ankylosing Spondylitis Ayurvedic Treatment

Ankylosing is an inflammatory rheumatic disease of the spine and sacroiliac joints. It's a chronic disorder in which the vertebrae fuse because of chronic inflammation and irritation of the spinal joints.

As systemic rheumatoid disease, ankylosing spondylitis can spread to other joints (like hips, knees, or shoulders).

Causes and Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing Spondylitis is a debilitating condition that can affect the entire body. The various symptoms associated with the disease are listed below:

• Inflammation, stiffness in the lower part of the spine and swelling in the eyes can also result.
• Chest expansion may be painful, and lung fibrosis can also occur.
• Loss of appetite and bowel inflammation.
• Weight loss is initially accompanied by joint, heel, and neck pain.

However, the exact cause for this condition is unknown, but the presence of the below-listed factors can increase the probability of its occurrence.

• The presence of gene HLA-B 27 is associated with ankylosis; therefore, it may be inherited genetically.
• Prolonged stress may trigger it.
• It's an autoimmune disease in which the body's defence system attacks the body's tissues.

Natural Treatment for Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ayurveda is an ancient science of healing that uses natural herbs to treat various diseases. According to Ayurveda, rheumatoid pains are caused due to the formation of toxins in the body called 'Ama'. These toxins can be correlated to auto-antibodies, which are the body's defence system attacking the body's tissues.

So, the ayurvedic treatment aims to digest and eliminate the 'ama' by administering different herbs, thus treating the disorder. According to Ayurveda, disease occurs when there is an imbalance of doshas. However, ankylosing spondylitis involves an imbalance of Vata, the body's kinetic energy. A regular massage with Ayurvedic oils may regulate this.

Herbal Remedies for Ankylosing Spondylitis used traditionally:

Guggul (Commiphora mukul) - This anti-inflammatory herb helps stop spondylitis's progress.

According to Sarvesh Kumar Singh et al. research, Guggulu forms an important constituent of triyodashanga Guggulu that effectively reduces tendon and ligament stiffness associated with ankylosing spondylitis.

In another research by Prasad Mamidi et al., Guggulu panchapala churnam, if administered twice daily after food, showed positive results for this painful rheumatic disease.

Giloy (Tinospora portfolio) - This herb can effectively treat rheumatoid pains.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an anti-inflammatory herb that helps ease pain.

According to research by Vijayalakshmi N, Withania somnifera (besides other herbs) forms an important part of 'Kalka', an ayurvedic paste that is helpful in treating AS.

Shallaki (Boswellia serrata)- Research by Shyama Kumar et al. states the uses of Boswellia serrata for inflammatory diseases like ankylosing spondylitis. It is an effective painkiller, and it can also prevent the loss of cartilage.

Ankylosing Spondylitis and Spondylitis Arthritis Natural Remedy

Sometimes the pain caused by this disorder is so acute that relieving the pain at that time instantly becomes a priority. In such cases, Ankylosing Spondylitis herbal treatment involves the use of herbs like dry ginger, turmeric, ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), fenugreek, salami (Boswellia) and giloy (Tinospora cordifolia). The extracts of these herbs help mitigate the pain and inflammation caused by spondylitis arthritis.

Besides the herbs mentioned above, dasmoola, asana (Pluchea lanceolata), and (Ricinus Communis) are also used to alleviate the pain and inflammation caused by this disease. Punarnava mandoor tablets are considered very effective ayurvedic medicine in decreasing inflammatory oedema around the joints and rebuilding strength.

To restore the vata dosha, massage with ayurvedic medicated oils and consuming cow's ghee with herbal tablets may also be advised. Constipation should be avoided as it leads to vata imbalance that can worsen the pain.

Ankylosing Spondylitis Diet 

A thumb rule to keep the inflammation and pains at bay for AS patients is to keep the weight under check. Carrying too much weight can strain the already painful and inflamed joints. Some points to ponder are mentioned below:

• Eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, especially the coloured ones. The antioxidants present in them will help protect the cells from free radicals, which result in inflammation.
• Include whole grains like whole wheat, brown rice, quinoa and buckwheat.
• Drink plenty of fluids and limit the intake of alcohol as it leads to weaker bones.
• Omega fatty acids in cold water fish and fish oil supplements help reduce inflammation. People suffering from ankylosing spondylitis who take a diet rich in omega fatty acids may show a considerable decrease in the symptoms.
• Any arthritis that hinders movement may lead to osteoporosis; therefore, it is advisable to take a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D (dairy products and fortified cereals). Calcium and vitamin D supplements can also be taken after consulting your doctor. 

Yoga for ankylosing spondylitis

Yoga is an ancient mind, body and soul healing therapy. Yoga can be helpful for ankylosing spondylitis as the asanas can not only ease the pain and stiffness in the lower back but also help strengthen the muscles, thus improving spinal flexibility.

Aasanas like Padahastasana, Ardha chakrasana, Ardhakatichakrasana, Dhanurasana, Paschimottanasana, Vakrasana are very effective for this disease.

Pranayamas like Nadishodana and Bramari pranayama are also very effective. Besides this, Kapalbharti is also very beneficial. 

Alternative Treatments and Natural Remedies for Ankylosing Spondylitis

Some other treatments and natural remedies that can provide relief from this disorder are:

• Hydrotherapy: Hot and cold compresses can provide relief from severe pain.
• Drinking apple cider vinegar and honey has shown positive results in some patients.
• Therapies like acupressure, acupuncture, aromatherapy and massage can be useful in relieving pain and stress.

Natural treatment for ankylosing spondylitis in Melbourne

With time, ayurvedic treatment is becoming popular for its innumerable benefits. If you have been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis, try the treatment offered at Pure Herbal Ayurvedic Clinic in Melbourne. We provide a custom-made treatment for every patient as every individual is different with a unique constitution.

Contact us at Pure Herbal Ayurved Clinic for more information on Ankylosing Spondylitis Ayurvedic Natural Treatment in Melbourne.

References:

1. Sarvesh Kumar Singh, Kshipra Rajoria, 'Ayurvedic approach for management of ankylosing spondylitis: A case report', Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/303503314_Ayurvedic_approach_for_management_of_ankylosing_spondylitis_A_case_report?opdsd=1#pf4

2. Prasad Mamidi, Kshama Gupta, 'Ayurvedic Management of Ankylosing Spondylitis–A Case Report', Research Gate, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/321488316_Ayurvedic_Management_of_Ankylosing_Spondylitis-A_Case_Report

3. Shyama Kumar, Divya Bhosle, Akshay Janghel, Amit Alexander, 'Indian Medicinal Plants Used for Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis, Research Journal of Pharmacy and Technology, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/281573305_Indian_Medicinal_Plants_Used_for_Treatment_of_Rheumatoid_Arthritis

4. Vijayalakshmi N, 'Ayurvedic Management of Spondyloartropathy with Sacrolitis', Homeopathy & Ayurvedic Medicine, https://www.omicsonline.org/open-access/ayurvedic-management-of-spondyloartropathy-with-sacrolitis-2167-1206.1000119.pdf

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