Rife
I’m new here. I have been battling this disease for several years but struggle because I am extremely reluctant to try pharmaceuticals. Doctor and I discussed methotrexate but that’s what led to finding out Im extremely anemic. Fine with me as I don’t like putting that stuff in my body. That is what led me to my Rife machine and it’s changed my life.
I am not in any way selling or promoting the idea of anyone purchasing a Rife machine. I personally am scared to death of pharmaceuticals so am always looking outside the box. My doctor supports my choice and is very interested herself.
So next question, what unconventional treatments has anyone else had success with?
When I was dx with AS, it was close to the covid experience, so I chose not to take anything that would lower my immune system. Because I also have Multiple Sclerosis, I am not able to take any biologics except Cosentyx, because they will make me worse. After I left the rheumatologist the first time, he told me that if I chose to not take biologics, the least I could do is stop eating nightshades. Nightshades are a family of plants that include tomatoes, white potatoes, eggplant and green (red, orange, yellow) to name a few. I have eliminated them from my diet, I still have pain, but I do not have the sensitivity in all my joints like I used to.
Lesions on your brain. Yes, that sounds like MS, but other things can cause lesions. The most difficult, but also the most healing thing I did, diet-wise, was to stop all gluten. Luckily, there are more options now than when I did it. It took 3 months to really feel the impact of stopping gluten, but I haven't ever gone back to having gluten since 2011. 
Thank you so much for sharing. I have cut out a lot out of my diet. But I want to try again cutting gluten completely. I did it for 2 months and it helped bring down symptoms. I just have a hard time sticking to it. LOL!!! It takes a lot of discipline but it well worth it if it means getting less pain.
How have you been feeling ?
Nicky (Team Member)
- I think it's commendable you are discovering ways to remain active in your healthcare while staying true to your convictions about using pharmaceuticals as first-line treatment. While conventional pharmaceutical treatments are commonly prescribed for spondyloarthritis (SpA), it's understandable that some individuals may have concerns or reservations about using medications. It's important to note that the effectiveness and safety of unconventional treatments for SpA have not been widely studied or supported by scientific evidence. However, here are some alternative approaches that some individuals have explored. Please consult with your healthcare professional before considering any new treatments.
1. Complementary and Alternative therapies: These may include acupuncture, massage therapy, chiropractic adjustments, herbal supplements, dietary changes, or mind-body techniques like meditation and yoga. It's important to consult with qualified practitioners and inform them about your specific condition and any conventional treatments you may be using.
2. Heat and cold therapy: One of my first go-to's - applying heat or cold to affected joints may help reduce pain and inflammation for some individuals. Heat therapy, such as warm baths or using heating pads, can help relax muscles and ease stiffness. Cold therapy, such as ice packs or cold compresses, may help numb pain and reduce swelling.
3. Mind-body practices: Some of which I've explored recently - Practices like mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques may help manage pain, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. They can be used alongside other treatments to enhance coping strategies and promote relaxation.
4. Dietary changes: While there is limited scientific evidence regarding specific diets for SpA, some individuals have reported finding relief by making dietary changes. These may include following an anti-inflammatory diet, avoiding certain trigger foods, or experimenting with elimination diets to identify potential food sensitivities.
Hoping you get a chance to look at some articles that explore other ideas such as TENS unit https://axialspondyloarthritis.net/treatment/tens-pain-management
-or-
https://axialspondyloarthritis.net/complementary-integrative-health
Wishing you well on your journey toward well-being. Rebecca (community moderator)
Hi LindaKay39,
Welcome to the community!
We appreciate you reaching out and are glad you found something that has provided some relief.
There has been much discussion about Rife machines and electromagnetic treatment therapy over the years. We hope others will chime in here with their personal experiences on unconventional treatment options.
In the meantime, I thought you might be interested in this article that may provide some additional information on alternative treatment options: https://axialspondyloarthritis.net/complementary-integrative-health
All my best, Doreen (Team Member)
