Ayurvedic Management of Ankylosing Spondylitis - A Case Report

Introduction: Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a sero negative chronic inflammatory arthritis of unknown cause that primarily affects the axial skeleton which usually begins in the second or third decade of life with a male to female ratio of 3:1. The prevalence rate of AS in India is 0.03%. It is clinically correlated to Danda Apatanaka in Ayurveda. It is caused due to the vitiated Vata and Kapha Dosha which enters the Dhamani and causes stiffness of the body. Due to its known complications and its tendency to hamper the quality of life, there is a need for an effective Ayurvedic intervention. This report is based on a case of Ankylosing Spondylitis which presented with pricking pain over nape of the neck and low back associated with stiffness and restricted movements, swelling over nape of neck right shoulder and right side of face, associated with restricted movements of right upper limb. Methods: This case was diagnosed as Danda Apatanaka and was treated with Basti Karma, Abhyanga along with oral medications. Assessment was done before and after treatment using relevant scales. Result: After 2 weeks of treatment pain and swelling over the nape of neck, right shoulder and face resolved completely, pain and stiffness of low back reduced, pain in right upper limb reduced and patient was able to perform normal movements. Stiffness of neck still persisted. Conclusion: Ankylosing spondylitis can be effectively managed by Ayurvedic treatment modalities after proper assessment of the involved Dosha and Dhatus