An Ayurvedic approach towards management of Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Ankylosing spondylitis(AS) is a rheumatic disease that comes under the category of Spondyloarthritides. The symptoms of the disease are usually first noticed in late adolescence or early adulthood, with male to the female prevalence of 3:1. Which can be better managed by a combination of Panchakarma procedures and Ayurveda drugs. Clinical findings - We present a case of AS, having symptoms of low back pain along with stiffness unable to bend forward completely, and pain in the nape of the neck with stiffness and restricted movement so it was considered to be Gambhira Vatarakta. Intervention: Patient was treated with Panchakarma treatment Vaitrana Basti(Enema with medicated drugs) in Kala Schedule for 9 days and Jambeera Pinda Swedana(JPS)  for 6 days along with oral medicines. Outcomes - As oral Medication along with Panchakarma procedures help in relieving signs and symptoms like pain and restricted movement and providing best comfort to the patient by reducing the severity of the disability. Conclusion - so it can be concluded that Panchakarma is effective in the management of Ankylosing Spondylitis.