Ayurvedic Treatment for Ankylosing Spondylitis in Hyderabad

At Vardhan Ayurveda Hospital, Ayurvedic treatment of ankylosing spondylitis in Hyderabad may combine personalised therapeutic procedures, external therapies, lifestyle modification, physical activity, dietary guidance, and Ayurvedic medicines when considered appropriate by a qualified Ayurvedic doctor.

Treatment recommendations vary depending on the severity and duration of symptoms, degree of pain and stiffness, spinal mobility, involvement of other joints, physical activity, medical history, medications, and overall health.

People seeking Ayurvedic management for ankylosing spondylitis may look for a holistic approach that focuses on supporting comfortable movement, maintaining physical function, managing stiffness and discomfort, and addressing lifestyle factors that may influence overall musculoskeletal well-being.

1. Ayurvedic Therapies

Selected Ayurvedic therapies may be incorporated into an individualised management plan to support relaxation, comfortable movement, and musculoskeletal well-being. The therapies selected depend on the individual’s symptoms, health status, constitution, suitability, and treatment requirements.

Depending on the doctor’s assessment, selected therapies may be used with objectives such as:

• Supporting comfortable movement and flexibility
• Easing feelings of stiffness and muscular tension
• Promoting relaxation and physical well-being
• Supporting mobility and functional movement
• Complementing appropriate exercise and lifestyle measures

Possible therapies may include:

• Abhyanga: Abhyanga is a therapeutic oil massage performed using oils selected according to the individual’s constitution and treatment plan. It may support relaxation, comfort, and mobility and can be incorporated alongside other Ayurvedic measures when appropriate.
• Swedana: Swedana involves therapeutic sweating or steam therapy and may be used alongside other external therapies when considered suitable. It is traditionally used to promote relaxation and support comfortable movement.
• Pizhichil: Pizhichil involves the gentle pouring of warm medicated oil over the body or selected areas under professional supervision. It may be considered in specific cases as part of a broader Ayurvedic management plan.
• Basti: Basti involves the administration of selected medicated preparations through the rectal route under professional supervision. In Ayurveda, it may be considered for selected musculoskeletal presentations depending on the individual’s constitution, symptoms, and overall assessment.
• Other external therapies: Depending on the individual’s symptoms and treatment plan, other local or full-body Ayurvedic therapies may be considered to support comfort and mobility.

Ayurvedic therapies should only be undertaken following assessment by a qualified Ayurvedic doctor. Individuals diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis should also continue appropriate medical evaluation and management, particularly when symptoms are severe, progressive, or associated with significant functional limitations.

2. Ayurvedic Herbal Medicines

Ayurvedic practice includes various herbs and formulations traditionally used to support musculoskeletal health, comfort, and Vata balance. The choice of formulation depends on the individual’s constitution, symptoms, age, health status, medications, and other treatment considerations.

Herbal medicines should always be prescribed by a qualified Ayurvedic doctor following an appropriate clinical evaluation. Some herbs and formulations traditionally used in Ayurvedic musculoskeletal care may include:

• Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is traditionally used in Ayurveda to support strength, physical resilience, and general well-being. Its use depends on individual suitability.
• Shallaki: Shallaki (Boswellia serrata) is traditionally used in Ayurvedic practice to support joint and musculoskeletal health and may be included in selected formulations.
• Guggulu Preparations: Certain Guggulu-based formulations are traditionally used in Ayurveda for musculoskeletal concerns and may be considered depending on the individual’s symptoms and constitution.
• Nirgundi: Nirgundi (Vitex negundo) is traditionally used in external Ayurvedic preparations and formulations associated with musculoskeletal discomfort and stiffness.
• Rasna: Rasna (Pluchea lanceolata) is traditionally used in Ayurvedic formulations intended to support joint and musculoskeletal health.

Herbal medicines should not be presented as substitutes for appropriate medical evaluation or treatment of ankylosing spondylitis. Some Ayurvedic ingredients may interact with medicines or may not be suitable for everyone. Their use should therefore be guided by a qualified healthcare professional.