Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease is one of medicine's great mysteries.

What is clear is the role of leaky gut in Crohn's disease. Increases in intestinal permeability always seem to precede relapses in Crohn's disease (Lancet, 1993;341: 1437-9). Increased gut permeability permits allergenic material to enter the circulation.

Studies have shown that inflammatory joint diseases such as spondyloarthropathy are triggered through increased gut permeability (J Rheumatol, 1991; 18: 394-400).

The 'Stone Age' or elemental diet - which is free of grains, red meat, cow's milk products, refined sugar and all processed foods - has been shown to induce as dramatic remission in patients with Crohn's disease, as do steroids (Aliment Pharmacol Ther, 1997;11: 735-40; BMJ,1984;288: 1859-62).

Osteopathy can often help the inflammatory disorders of the large joints of the body, particularly the lower back, which often accompany Crohn's disease (Am Ost Assoc Semin Gastrointest Dis, 1991:2: 115). Indeed, an Osteopath could be invaluable in making an early diagnosis of Crohn's disease, based on the careful assessment of low back or peripheral joint pain.

Consultation: appointment by telephone 01293 784200