ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of moxibustion on the Governor Vessel in combination with acupuncture on ankylosing spondylitis.MethodsThirtypatetints with ankylosing spondylitis(kidneyyang deficiency pattern) were recruited and treated with moxibustion on the Governor Vessel in combination with acupuncture. The scores of Scale of Quality of Life for Ankylosing Spondylitis (SQOL-AS), Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index(BASDAI), Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index(BASFI), Fatigue Assessment Instrument(FAI)and erythrocyte sedimentation rate(ESR) before and after treatment were evaluated.ResultsThe scores of BASDAI(0.427±0.381vs. 6.107±1.375;t=28.986,P<0.01), BASFI(0.753±0.504 vs. 7.480±1.152;t=36.580,P<0.01), FAI(40.067±14.746vs. 146.967±26.283;t=24.520,P<0.01)after treatment were significantly lower than those before treatment; ESR after treatment were significantly lower than that before treatment(19.833±13.929 mm/hvs. 31.567± 20.065 mm/h;t=3.708,P<0.01). The subscores of Physical Functioning(33.000±1.930vs. 12.033±1.790;t=62.165,P<0.01), Mental Health(25.367±2.059vs. 14.067±2.303;t=30.139,P<0.01), Social Functioning(21.267±4.025vs. 8.767±1.977;t=26.643,P<0.01) and General Health Perception (22.733± 2.690vs. 9.767±2.738;t=25.729,P<0.01) of SQOL-AS after treatment were significantly lower than that before treatment.ConclusionsMoxibustion on the Governor Vessel in combination with acupuncture can improve physical functioning and reduce disease activity in patients with ankylosing spondylitis.

This article discussed the theoretical basis,therapeutic thoughts and concrete methods for treating ankylosing spondylitis on Governor vessel from the aspects of the clinical symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis,the circulation of Governor vessel,traditional Chinese medicine basic theory and clinical application.Moxibustion on Governor vessel can effective improve the stiffness and pain of ankylosing spondylitis.