Ankylosing Spondylitis Treatment in Indore

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a severe autoimmune and inflammatory arthritis predominantly in the lower back (spine) and other joints (sacroiliac). Gradually, the inflammation may result in rigidity, discomfort and in severe instances, the spinal bones may fuse.

It is a disease that is part of a group of diseases known as Spondyloarthropathies.

Mechanism of AS Development (Disease Mechanism)

AS is the condition that is the result of the immune system attacking improperly:

Spinal joints

Sacroiliac joints (between the spine and the pelvis).

Entheses (ligament-tendon bone attachments)

This inflammation is an autoimmune disease that causes:

Pain, stiffness, swelling

Accidental calcification of the spine tissues.

Reduced flexibility

The spine may fuse (ankylosis), resulting in some of them being bent forward.

Causes & Risk Factors

1. Genetic Factors

The greatest risk factor is the HLA-B27 gene.

(Not everyone who develops AS carries this gene; however, the majority of the AS patients do.)

2. Immune System Dysfunction

The immune system in the body attacks the joints and tissues of the body.

3. Family History

AS runs strongly in families.

4. Other Causes (Potential Triggers)

Gut inflammation

Previous infections

Environmental triggers

Smoking (worsens severity)

Ankylosing Spondylitis Symptoms.

The symptoms tend to start during the late teens or early 40s, and they build up.

Early Symptoms

Chronic lower back pain

Suffers when active, and feels better when resting.

Stiffness that takes over 30 minutes in the morning.

Hip pain, buttock pain or sacrum pain.

Progressive Symptoms

Meanwhile, decreased spine flexibility.

Stooped posture

Pain in the chest and loss of the capacity in lungs.

Pain in heels, shoulders, ribs

Other Involvements

Other parts of the body can be afflicted by AS:

Eyes: Uveitis/iritis (painful eyes, blurred vision)

Abdomen: Inflammatory bowel disease.

Skin: Psoriasis

Heart: Rarely affects valves

Fatigue & anemia

Diagnosis

Diagnosis Diagnostic criteria: + tests:

1. Blood Tests

HLA-B27

Inflammatory biomarkers (ESR, CRP)

2. Imaging

X-ray of sacroiliac joints

MRI (sensitive, reflects early inflammation)

3. Physical Examination

Spinal mobility tests

Chest expansion

Tender points and range of motion.

Traditional Medical Intervention.

No treatment exists, but the inflammation can be controlled, pain may be reduced, and disability prevented.

1. NSAIDs

To decrease pain and stiffness, First line.

2. DMARDs

In case of peripheral joints (knees, ankles):

3. Biologics (Advanced Treatment)

TNF inhibitors

IL-17 inhibitors

These suppress inflammation in severe instances.

4. Physical Therapy

It is one of the most significant mobility treatments in the long term.

Lifestyle, Supportive and Integrative Care.

Medical treatment should be used, but these supplements may also be useful (but not instead of medical treatment).

1. Yoga & Exercise

Essential for AS:

Improves flexibility

Reduces stiffness

Strengthens back muscles

Helps in position and breathing.

Special focus:

Spine extension

Chest expansion

Hip mobility

Pranayama Breathing exercises.

2. Diet Support

Although an anti-inflammatory diet does not prevent the disease, it helps to alleviate the exacerbation of the disease:

Omega-3-rich foods

Fresh vegetables, fruits

Whole grains

Avoid: processed foods, sugar, large amounts of gluten, smoking, and alcohol abuse.

3. Homeopathy/ Ayurveda/Integrative Approach.

It may help in relieving the symptoms, decreasing stress, improving sleep, and increasing overall well-being. They can be used as complementary, not an alternative to medical treatment.

4. Posture Training

Patients must learn:

Straight spine posture

Sitting and sleeping are Good practices.

Chest-expansion exercises

Prognosis

Through regular treatment and exercise, many patients lead normal, active lives.

Early diagnosis enhances the long-term outcome.

In untreated cases, severe spinal fusion is present in only a minor percentage.

With regular physiotherapy, yoga and medical attention, spine flexibility and mobility are maintained.