Ankylosing Spondylitis

What you need to know:

Until recently, people with this progressive and distressing form of arthritis were 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 more supple. You 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 you 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.

Dietary changes that may be beneficial:

Eat 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 betacarotene
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. Many herbs are known to be effective anti-inflammatories.

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

Homoeopathy

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 homoeopath 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.