Dr. Rajesh Shah's advice on Ankylosing Spondylitis Scope of Homeopathy: Relieves pain and stiffness. Controls disease process. Very Strongly recommended

Ankylosing Spondylitis

Introduction:
Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is one of many forms of chronic inflammatory arthritis, affecting the spine, especially the joints between the vertebrae of the spine and the joints between the spine and the pelvis (sacro-iliac joints). It may also affect other joints of the body. The joints are initially inflamed and this may be followed by progressive stiffness and inflexibility. It eventually leads to the fusion of the spine, giving permanent painful stiffness of the back. It is often called bamboo spine, as the spine tends get stiff like a bamboo. This condition is more common in males as compared to females and usually occurs in individuals between 16-40 years of age.

Causes:
The exact cause of Ankylosing spondylitis is not understood. It has been considered to be an autoimmune disease (like many others such as Diabetes, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Alopecia Areata, Thyroiditis, etc.). Genetic factors are likely to be involved. The majority of people with Ankylosing spondylitis have a gene called HLA-B27. However, the presences of HLA-B27 (Human Leukocyte Antigen B27) is not absolutely diagnostic of Ankylosing Spondylitis. There are theories on its link with some bacterial infection as a triggering factor. 

Disgnosis:

Presence of HLA-B27 antigen, increased levels of CRP (C- Reactive Proteins) and ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate) along with suggestive clinical history help in diagnosis of Ankylosing spondylitis.

Homeopathic treatment:

Homeopathic treatment helps two ways:

a. Control underlying disease process

b. Significant Relief in pain and stiffness

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) being a constitutional disorder calls for a constitutional approach to its treatment. Homeopathic approach incorporates detailed study of the cases of AS inclusive of the genetic trend of the patients. The remedy prescribed after such detailed evaluation offers effective pain control as well as helps in controlling the progress of this condition. Early cases of AS can be treated with good success with homoeopathy. Cases that have advanced to a moderate extent can also be helped, especially in preventing the further progress of the disease and limiting the pain. However, severe cases can only be relieved symptomatically with homoeopathic treatment. Homeopathy is strongly suggested for Ankylosing Spondylitis, especially in the early and mid stages. Patients opting for homeopathic treatment do better than those who do not.

Related conditions: Rheumatoid Arthritis, Backache, Multiple Myeloma

Case studies of Ankylosing Spondylitis