Ayurvedic management of Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a chronic, progressive rheumatological disease affecting the axial skeleton and peripheral joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and functional impairment. Despite advancements in conventional medicine, many patients experience limited relief, adverse effects, or seek holistic alternatives. This case report highlights the successful management of a 35-year-old male diagnosed with AS, presenting with complaints of persistent low back pain, morning stiffness, and reduced spinal mobility through a comprehensive Ayurveda treatment protocol. An integrative Ayurveda approach was implemented, encompassing Panchakarma (~five internal bio-cleansing therapies), and internal medications aimed at addressing the underlying pathology focusing on pacifying Vata (~ Dosha responsible for movement and cognition), digesting Ama (~toxic byproduct generated due to improper or incomplete digestion), and rejuvenating tissues. Marked improvements were observed in clinical parameters such as pain and morning stiffness and chemical parameters such as Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate, with a reduction of 52% in the Bath AS Disease Activity Index and 58% in the Bath AS Functional Index. The patient reported sustained improvement in quality of life, demonstrating Ayurveda’s potential to manage chronic inflammatory conditions like AS.