Physiotherapy for Ankylosing Spondylitis: Systematic Review and a Proposed Rehabilitation Protocol

E-ISSN： 1875-6360|13|2|121-125

ISSN： 1573-3971

Source： Current Rheumatology Reviews, Vol.13, Iss.2, 2017-07, pp. : 121-125

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Abstract

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease with gradual onset, largelyaffecting the axial skeleton. As leads to varying degrees of restricted spinal mobility, pain and loss offunctional capacity. Rehabilitation, especially physiotherapy and exercises, are considered integralcomponents of its management. Various rehabilitation modalities are available for the benefit ofindividuals with AS, but a sequenced protocol has not been reported. A scientific review was performedusing the following search engines: MEDLINE (Pubmed), COCHRANE Library and PhysiotherapyEvidence Database (PEDro). Studies, which had at least one of the groups receiving rehabilitation,and the major outcomes studied including pain, stiffness, mobility (spine and chest wall) andphysical function (disease activity, ADL, QOL and global function) were selected. A total of 28 studieswere shortlisted for the review which included a total of 1926 subjects with AS. The review ofliterature showed that individuals with AS had beneficial effects from exercise programmes comparedto no exercise. Patient education, active involvement and motivation of individuals with ASplayed an important role in the overall treatment outcomes. Based on the review, a four-phase sequencedrehabilitation protocol has been laid down for the benefit of individuals with AS.