Article: A CLASSICAL AYURVEDIC APPROACH TO ANKYLOSING SPONDYLITIS (AS) WITH POSTURE CORRECTION: A CASE REPORT

Article Category: Case Reports

DOI: 10.7897/2277-4343.174130

Pages: 27-31

Author: Harikrishnan AR *

Abstract: Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic disease that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints, leading to progressive pain, stiffness, postural deformities, and eventual fusion of vertebrae. A 24-year-old male presented with complaints of stooped posture, forward-flexed upper body posture (partial kyphotic deformity), pain, and tenderness over the sacroiliac joints, with a confirmed diagnosis of Ankylosing spondylitis. A phase-wise classical Ayurvedic treatment protocol was adopted, focusing on Ama nirharana (elimination of metabolic toxins), Vata samana (pacification of aggravated Vata), nirharana of sthambana in greeva prishta trika (relief of stiffness in the cervical, dorsal, and lumbosacral regions), kubjatva nirharana (correction of spinal deformity/hunchback posture) and dathu poshana (nourishment and restoration of body tissues). Both internal medications and external therapeutic procedures were administered as part of a holistic management approach. Clinical outcomes, including posture, pain, mobility, and functional ability, were assessed during follow-up. Significant improvements were observed in pain, stiffness, posture, mobility, and overall functional capacity. This case highlights the potential of a holistic Ayurvedic approach in improving quality of life and functional outcomes in patients with Ankylosing spondylitis.

Keyword: Ankylosing spondylitis, Ayurvedic management, Bamboo spine, Chronic rheumatic disorder, Kyphosis, Spondyloarthropathy.