Ankylosing Spondylitis Treatment in Homeopathy by Dr. Vikas Singhal

Can Homeopathy Treat Ankylosing Spondylitis?

Yes. Ankylosing spondylitis treatment in homeopathy aims to reduce the inflammation in the spine and sacroiliac joints that causes pain and stiffness, and to lower the frequency and severity of flares. With individualized medicines, most patients notice less morning stiffness and better joint mobility within six to ten weeks. HLA-B27 positive and negative cases can be treated, alongside any prescribed NSAIDs or biologics in coordination with the rheumatologist.

Ankylosing spondylitis, also known as AS, is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the spine and the sacroiliac joints, where the spine connects with the pelvis. It can cause pain and stiffness, especially where ligaments connect to the bones. Over time, the body may form extra bone around the affected joints. This can cause the vertebrae to join together, making the spine less flexible and harder to move. Ankylosing spondylitis is part of a group of conditions called spondyloarthritis, which also includes psoriatic arthritis and reactive arthritis.

AS usually begins between 17 and 35 and affects men more often than women. Individuals carrying HLA-B27 are more prone to ankylosing spondylitis. Studies show that around 85 to 90% of ankylosing spondylitis patients may carry the HLA-B27 gene. However, the percentage varies across ethnic and geographic populations. Studies from India have also reported HLA-B27 positivity above 90% in some groups of patients with ankylosing spondylitis.

Symptoms & Early Signs

• Lower back and buttock pain that is worse at night and in the early morning, and improves with movement and exercise
• Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes
• Pain alternating between the two buttocks (sacroiliitis)
• Heel pain (Achilles tendon or plantar fascia enthesitis)
• Pain in the chest while taking deep breaths
• Fatigue, low-grade fever, weight loss during flares
• Eye inflammation (uveitis) – red, painful eye needing prompt eye assessment – in 25-40% of patients
• Reduced spinal flexibility, stooped posture, reduced chest expansion, hip and shoulder involvement

Causes and HLA-B27

Ankylosing spondylitis is linked to genetic factors, especially the HLA-B27 gene. However, most people who carry this gene do not develop AS. Other factors may trigger an abnormal immune response, leading to inflammation where tendons and ligaments attach to bones. Changes in gut health and gut bacteria may also be linked to AS, and some people with this health condition may experience bowel symptoms. HLA-B27 testing can support the diagnosis, but a positive result alone does not confirm that a person has ankylosing spondylitis.

Related Blog: unraveling the mysteries of ankylosing spondylitis causes

How AS is Diagnosed – ESR, CRP, HLA-B27, X-ray and MRI

Symptoms and physical examination: The doctor first asks about your symptoms, such as back pain and stiffness, and examines your posture, spine movement, and joints.

Blood tests for inflammation:

• ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate): This test confirms how quickly red blood cells settle in a tube. A faster rate can point to inflammation in the body.
• CRP (C-Reactive Protein): It’s a chemical substance the liver releases when there is inflammation in the body; its high levels point toward active inflammation.

Genetic blood test:

• HLA-B27 (Human Leukocyte Antigen B27): A genetic marker found in many people with this condition. Its presence supports the diagnosis but does not mean a person will develop ankylosing spondylitis.

Imaging tests:

• X-ray: Can reveal changes in the sacroiliac joints, where the spine and pelvis interconnect.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): It can detect spinal inflammation at an early stage, often before changes appear on X-rays.

Tracking disease activity:

• BASDAI (Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index): A questionnaire in which you rate symptoms such as pain, stiffness, and fatigue, giving the doctor a clear picture of how active the disease is.
• ASDAS (Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score): A more comprehensive score that combines your symptom ratings with CRP blood levels for a more objective measure.

Ankylosing spondylitis treatment in Homeopathy

Conventional Treatments and Their Limits – NSAIDs, Biologics & Physiotherapy

Conventional treatments for ankylosing spondylitis involve physiotherapy, NSAIDs like Indomethacin, Naproxen, and Etoricoxib for pain & stiffness, and sulfasalazine for peripheral joints. Moreover, biologic drugs (anti-TNF and anti-IL-17 agents) are prescribed when NSAIDs don’t work. Steroid injections may also be used for specific joints.

NSAIDs work well, but their chronic use can damage the stomach lining, kidneys, and heart. On the other hand, biologics control inflammation effectively for many patients, but they are an expensive and lifelong treatment. Due to their immunosuppressive nature, they can cause a high risk of infections, including tuberculosis. 

For this reason, many patients look for ankylosing treatment in Homeopathy. This is because homeopathic remedies aim to treat the underlying factors that triggered the condition in the first place.

Ankylosing Spondylitis Treatment in Homeopathy

In homeopathy, two patients with ankylosing spondylitis get different treatments based on their unique symptoms and overall lifestyle habits. This is because homeopathic remedies are highly personalized, based on a patient-centric treatment approach. 

At Dr. Singhal Homeo Clinic, Dr. Vikas Singhal will observe the uniqueness of the symptoms, history of diseases in the family, daily lifestyle habits, and overall health factors. Based on this, an individualized remedy will be selected. 

Moreover, patients can take homeopathic medicines along with prescribed NSAIDs or biologics. Over time, homeopathic remedies can help reduce the long-term dependency on conventional medicines. For patients on biologics, the aim is to extend the interval between doses or stop them, only when ESR/CRP and symptoms confirm sustained control.

Treatment Duration & Follow-Ups*

Patient’s Video Testimonials for Ankylosing Spondylitis

Patients Testimonials for Ankylosing Spondylitis

Can Ankylosing Spondylitis Be Cured Permanently?

Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic health condition, but its symptoms and progression can vary from person to person. With early diagnosis, regular monitoring, and appropriate treatment, many people can achieve better control of pain and stiffness and maintain their daily activities. The goal is to reduce inflammation, manage symptoms, support mobility, and help maintain a good quality of life over the long term.

Treatment should be personalized according to each person’s symptoms, disease activity, medical history, and overall health. At Dr. Singhal Homeo Clinic, patients are assessed individually, with their previous reports and current symptoms reviewed during consultations. Progress can be monitored through symptoms, physical function, and relevant medical tests such as ESR and CRP. Early attention is important because structural changes that have already developed in the spine may be difficult to reverse.

Moreover, daily stretching, swimming, posture, a firm mattress, breathing exercises/pranayama, and stopping smoking can help in effective management of ankylosing spondylitis.

Global Telemedicine Services: Online Consultation & Treatment of Ankylosing Spondylitis by Dr. Vikas Singhal

In his 23+ years of clinical practice, Dr. Vikas Singhal has treated more than 50,000+ patients from 70 countries at his Chandigarh-based Dr. Singhal Homeo Clinic. You can have an online or offline consultation with Dr. Singhal by scheduling an appointment. Medicines can be delivered to your doorstep in any country. 

Call or send a message on WhatsApp at +91 9056551747 to book your appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can ankylosing spondylitis be cured permanently?

Ans: Ankylosing spondylitis is a lifelong condition that can be managed with homeopathic treatment. This treatment can help control symptoms like stiffness, inflammation, pain, and reduced mobility of the spine.

Q2.Is homeopathy effective for HLA-B27-positive patients?

Ans: Yes. Homeopathic remedies are highly individualized, based on the patient’s unique symptoms and overall health patterns. Both HLA-B27-positive and negative patients can get homeopathic treatment.

Q3. Can I take homeopathic medicines along with biologics or NSAIDs?

Ans: Absolutely. It’s completely safe to take homeopathic medicines with conventional medicines. However, it’s important to consult with a physician before taking homeopathic remedies.

Q4. Which homeopathic medicines are used to treat ankylosing spondylitis?

Ans: There’s no fixed remedy for ankylosing spondylitis. Instead, a qualified physician will take a deep evaluation of your unique symptoms, lifestyle factors, and overall health to prescribe an individualized remedy.