Ankylosing Spondylitis Treatment Protocol in Ayurveda for HLA-B27 Positive Patients

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is not merely a back disease—it is a chronic, systemic inflammatory disease that involves more than one system of the body. Though predominantly involving the sacroiliac joints and the back, it generally extends its arms of inflammation to the eyes (uveitis), skin (psoriatic-like presentations), and gut (gut inflammation) as well. At Sukhayu Ayurved, we see Ankylosing Spondylitis under a holistic Ayurvedic perspective based both on classical lore and contemporary knowledge.

Understanding the Ayurvedic Perspective: Vata-Kaphaja

In Ayurveda, the expression of Ankylosing Spondylitis closely corresponds to that of Vataja-Kaphaja Vatarakta and in more severe ones, to Gambhira Vatarakta. In this condition, the Vata dosha (regulating movement and nervous functions) vitiates with Kapha (in control of the structural and lubrication aspects) and inhibits the free flow of Rakta (blood) in the srotas, thus causing inflammation, stiffness, and degeneration of the joints

The Core Principles of Ayurvedic Management at Sukhayu Ayurved

The main principles of the treatment of Ankylosing Spondylitis are based on an approach. Because without proper approach no treatment can be sucessful. We work on these principles-

• Immunomodulation to correct autoimmune imbalance
• Creating a favorable body environment to control HLA-B27 gene expression
• Preventing joint fusion and degeneration
• Restoring gut health and removing Ama
• Enhancing mobility and reversing joint stiffness

Immunomodulation (Ojovardhan & Ama Nirharan):

We modulate the immune response, addressing the autoimmune misfiring that causes AS. Cleansing away the Ama (toxins) and building Ojas (vitality) is the starting point.

Genetic Expression and Haemostasis

Although the HLA-B27 gene could be a predisposition, Ayurveda assists in building a bio-environment (samyavastha) that dissuades aggressive expression of this gene. This is consistent with the theory of epigenetics—healing via environment and lifestyle.

Restoring Joint Health and Preventing Fusion:

The goal is to reverse inflammatory alterations, maintain joint mobility, and avoid fusion (ankylosis)—a usual aftermath of unchecked AS.

Digestive and skin health.

Since gut health is closely related to immunity, Agni deepana (strengthening the digestive fire) and Rasa dhatu shuddhi (cleansing nutrient plasma) are necessary to rectify systemic inflammation.

Panchakarma Protocol For Ankylosing Spondylitis at Sukhayu

1. Basti Chikitsa – The Monarch of Vata Control

Tikta Ksheer Basti (Bitter herbal milk treatment)
A total of 30 bastis in a span of 15 days in a well-planned Karma Basti regimen is administered.
It profoundly nourishes Asthi (bones) and Majja dhatu (bone marrow) and purifies inflammatory toxins.

2. Kaya Seka – Herbal Decoction Bath

There is a constant flow of hot herbal decoctions over the body.
It opens the channels (srotas), alleviates pain, and evokes a calming effect upon the muscles and joints.

3. Pathra Pinda Swedana / Choorna Pinda Swedana

Depending upon the stage and condition of the patient, fresh herbal leaf boluses or powder boluses are employed in fomentation- is Pinda Swedana. These therapies enhance circulation, diminish stiffness, and aid in mobilizing synovial fluid.

4. Lepana – Herbal paste application

Specific herbal pastes are made especially to be applied over the affected and inflamed joints to extract toxins, reduce inflammation, and normalize joint function.

The Treatment Timeline

The first stay at the IPD is 15 days, where full Panchakarma cleansing is done.
Thereafter, the patient is counseled to have regular Panchakarma sittings (7–8 days each) at intervals of 3–4 months based upon clinical improvement and recurrences.
This cyclic process of rejuvenation and immunomodulation yields long-term relief and restoration of function.

The Outcome: A Life with Unrestricted Movement
Our goal is not merely symptomatic relief but full restoration of function, protection against joint damage and fusion, and overall quality-of-life improvement—all via true, text-based Ayurvedic treatment.
🌿 At Sukhayu Ayurved, each treatment is a step towards balance—of genes, body, and mind. Instead of combating disease, we restore.