IMPORTANT
Unless otherwise stated on the package, most supplements and herbal remedies aren’t suitable for children under 12.
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Ankylosing Spondylitis

What you need to know:

Until recently, everyone - adult and child alike - with this progressive form of arthritis was told to rest and put no pressure on the joints. It’s now widely accepted, however, that maintaining mobility is one of the most important parts of treatment.

Exercise keeps the supportive muscle healthy, which helps the joints become suppler. Your child or young adult need exercise which is non-weight bearing - which means you’re not on your feet and putting pressure on the joints in your back. Swimming is ideal as the water bears the weight for you.

Several complementary therapies will also keep them mobile. They include the Alexander Technique Yoga and Reflexology. For killing the pain, try the Aromatherapy oils lavender, Roman Chamomile, eucalyptus, Juniper and Ginger - either buy the oils and add them to the bath, or a foot or hand bath, or have a relaxing professional massage. Osteopathy is one of the best treatments.

Ginger is also worth trying in your cooking. There’s now significant scientific evidence to show that it works, and many naturopaths now recommend not only the medicinal Chinese variety of the herbs, but also using it in cooking and as Ginger tea.

Other dietary changes that might help include eating more:
  • Oily fish and shellfish - for their omega-3 fatty acids
  • Sweet potatoes, broccoli, apricots, carrots, liver (but not if you’re pregnant) - for Vitamin A and beta-carotene
  • Citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwi fruits and dark green leafy vegetable - for Vitamin C and bioflavonoids
  • Olive oil, sunflower seeds, unsalted nuts and avocadoes - for vitamin E
Cutting down on red meat, game and coffee can also help reduce the inflammation.

The most useful Herbs:

  • Birch
  • Black cohosh
  • Meadowsweet
  • Poplar
  • Willow
  • Devil’s claw
  • Ginger - extracts of the medicinal Chinese variety of this herb

The most useful Supplements:

  • Green-lipped mussel extract
  • Glucosamine
  • Cod liver oil
  • Fish oils
  • Pycnogenol
The homoeopathic remedies Bryonia, Guaiacum and Rhododendron can also bring relief, but as this condition has so many potential causes, it’s worth consulting a homeopath or a doctor who’s also trained in homoeopathy rather than treating yourself with over-the-counter preparations.
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The information provided by WIS is for guidance only. Whilst it is based upon the expert advice of leading professionals, and extensive research, it is not a substitute for diagnosis by a qualified professional. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist or qualified practitioner before making any changes or additions to prescribed medication.