Holistic Management of Ankylosing Spondylitis through Ayurveda: A Case Study

Ankylosing Spondylitis is a group of spondylarthrosis, chronic autoimmune inflammatory disorder. Primarily it affects axial skeleton and gradually it affects peripheral joint and extra articular structure. Presence of sacroiliitis and structural changes is seen in this disorder. The usual presentation of Ankylosing Spondylitis is morning stiffness which is relieved after exercise or activity. The term “Ankylosing Spondylitis” is not mentioned in our ancient classics but the signs and symptoms can be clinically correlated to Kati Prishta Trik Graha in Ayurveda. Here major symptoms are Stambha and Shula in Kati Pradesh with Vata Kapha Dosha predominance. This was a single case study conducted at I.P.G.A.E&R at SVSP Kolkata. A 45 yrs old female patient, came to the Out Patient Department. complaining of pain and stiffness in Kati Prishta Trik Pradesh. She was diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis and bilateral Sacroiliitis 7 years ago. Management was done according to the principle of Kati Prishta Trik Graha. Treatment plan included Classical Virechana, Erandamuladi Niruha Basti in Kala Yoga followed by Samana Aushadhi. The disease activity was further analysed using BASDAI and ASDAS- CRP score and we got promising results by the treatment without any adverse effects.