Benefits of Panchakarma in Treatment of Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease. This can impact all the joints of the body. But primarily it affects the spine and sacroiliac joints. This disease leads to severe pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility and can end up to disability and deformity of the joints. Many patients with impact of AS on hip joint and knee joint are forced to opt for the joint replacements. Conventional treatment, aims on the “slowing down of the inflammatory process” through shutting down the immune response of the body. Patients get temporary relief. But deep inside the body, joints keep on decaying. Opposite to this, Ayurveda works on the internal environment of the body, by detoxification. We achieve this through role of panchakarma in treatment for Ankylosing Spondylitis.

This blog post explores the role of specific Panchakarma procedures

• Tikta Ksheer Basti,
• Kashaya Dhara, and targeted therapies like
• Kati Basti or Greeva Basti, along with
• Pinda Swedana for Panchakarma treatments ankylosing spondylitis.

Tikta Ksheer Basti

Basti is for – administration of the medicines through anal route to the large intestine. Because the medicines for this Basti contains- “Bitter taste medicines” (Tikta Dravya), we process with milk (Ksheer). This gives name to the Basti. Tikta (bitter) Ksheer (Milk)- Tikta Ksheer Basti. Here the ghee is- Guggulu Tikta, Maha Tikta or similar medicines. This Panchakarma procedure is particularly beneficial for ankylosing spondylitis. Because it addresses the health of bone marrow and enhances blood supply in small capillaries.

Benefits:

• Bone Health: Tikta Ksheer Basti strengthens bones by promoting healthy bone marrow function. This is crucial for AS patients. Because AS effects bones and joints directly. Therefore we consider this as main Panchakarma treatment for ankylosing spondylitis.
• Blood Supply: Movement of the blood in the capillaries compromises in case of most of Autoimmune conditions. Therefore we need a too which can enhance microcirculation. Tikta Ksheer basti ensures better delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the whole body. This eventually improves blood flow can reduce inflammation and promote healing in the spine and joints.
• Detoxification and Replenishing: Basti eliminates toxins not only from the lower digestive tract but also from deep seated toxins. Tikta Ksheer Basti helps balance all the Vata dosha, which are aggravated in AS. This Panchakarma treatment for AS helps in managing the pain and stiffness.

Kashaya Dhara

Kashaya Dhara is a therapeutic panchakarma procedure that involves the rhythmic pouring of warm herbal decoctions (kashayam) all over the body. Decoctions include Mahamanjistadi and Dashmool Kashayam and many other which are known for their anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties.

Benefits:

• Improved Blood Flow: The warmth and medicinal properties of the kashayam together, enhance blood circulation. This ensures that vital nutrients reach the affected tissues and this flow mobilises the local pool of toxins. Therefore this Panchakarma treatment for AS, helps in reducing inflammation and stiffness.
• Metabolic Boost: Kashaya Dhara stimulates metabolism and aids in the efficient removal of metabolic waste as discussed above. This is particularly important for AS patients, as better metabolism can help manage systemic inflammation.
• Muscle Relaxation: The continuous pouring of warm kashayam relaxes the muscles and tissues. Kashaya dhara provides relief from pain and stiffness. It also helps in calming the nervous system, which can be beneficial for overall well-being.

Targeted Therapies: Kati Basti and Greeva Basti

Because ankylosing spondylitis impacts the spine mostly. Therefore it is important to help the spine, locally too. Depending on the specific needs of the patient, targeted therapies like Kati Basti (for lower back pain) or Greeva Basti (for cervical pain) are employed. These localized treatments involve creating a pool of dough on the affected area and filling it with warm medicated oil.

Benefits:

• Localized Pain Relief: By focusing directly on the affected area, these treatments provide immediate relief from pain and stiffness. The warm oil penetrates deep into the tissues, soothing inflammation, when done in a particular “system”. This is we do scientifically with particular parameters in Panchakarma treatment for ankylosing spondylitis.
• Enhanced Mobility: Regular sessions of Kati Basti or Greeva Basti can improve flexibility and mobility in the targeted regions, allowing patients to perform daily activities with greater ease.
• Nutrient Delivery: The medicated oils used in these treatments are rich in therapeutic properties that nourish the tissues and promote healing.

Pinda Swedana

Pinda Swedana is a type of fomentation therapy that uses boluses filled with medicinal herbs. These boluses are heated and applied to the body. This Panchakarma treatment is essential for maintaining the health of muscles, which can be significantly affected by ankylosing spondylitis.

Benefits:

• Muscle Health: Pinda Swedana strengthens and rejuvenates the muscles, preventing atrophy and weakness that can result from chronic inflammation and inactivity.
• Pain Relief: The heat and medicinal properties of the boluses provide relief from muscle pain and stiffness, promoting relaxation and comfort.
• Improved Circulation: The massage-like application of Pinda Swedana enhances blood flow to the muscles, ensuring they receive adequate nutrients and oxygen for healing and maintenance.

Holistic Approach and Long-Term Benefits

Because of the benefits of these panchakarma treatment for ankylosing spondylitis, at Sukhayu we keep these procedures at the centre of treatment.

Therefore integrating these Panchakarma therapies into the treatment regimen for ankylosing spondylitis offers a holistic approach that addresses both the symptoms and the underlying causes of the disease. The combination of Tikta Ksheer Basti, Kashaya Dhara, Kati Basti or Greeva Basti, and Pinda Swedana provides a comprehensive solution that can:

• Reduce Pain and Inflammation: By balancing the doshas and improving blood flow, these therapies help in significantly reducing pain and inflammation.
• Enhance Mobility and Flexibility: Regular treatment sessions can improve joint and muscle flexibility, allowing patients to maintain an active lifestyle.
• Promote Overall Well-Being: Beyond physical benefits, Panchakarma therapies also promote mental and emotional health, which is essential for managing a chronic condition like ankylosing spondylitis.

At Sukhayu Ayurved, Jaipur, Dr. Vaidya Pardeep Sharma and his team specialize in tailoring Panchakarma treatments to meet the unique needs of each patient, ensuring optimal results and improved quality of life. By embracing the holistic principles of Ayurveda, patients with ankylosing spondylitis can find lasting relief and a path to better health.