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Exercise in ankylosing spondylitis: discrepancies between recommendations and reality.
Laura A Passalent1, Leslie J Soever, Finbar D O'Shea
1Musculoskeletal Health and Arthritis Program, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Ontario, Canada. laura.passalent@uhn.on.ca
The Journal of Rheumatology
|March 3, 2010
Summary
Patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) recognize exercise benefits but often don't exercise frequently. Common activities include walking and stretching, though fatigue is a major barrier.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Physical Therapy
- Exercise Science
Background:
- Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) management guidelines emphasize exercise as a cornerstone of care.
- Understanding exercise patterns and patient perceptions is crucial for effective AS management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the types and frequency of exercise among individuals with ankylosing spondylitis.
- To evaluate patients' perceptions of exercise benefits and barriers using the Exercise Benefits and Barriers Scale (EBBS).
Main Methods:
- Administered an exercise inventory questionnaire and the EBBS to 61 AS patients.
- Analyzed EBBS benefits and barriers subscales to quantify exercise perceptions.
Main Results:
- Walking and stretching were the most common exercises, performed thrice weekly by 35.0% and 32.8% of patients, respectively.
- High perceived benefits (mean score 87.1) were reported, particularly increased physical fitness and improved cardiovascular function.
- Fatigue was the primary barrier, cited by 71.4% of patients.
Conclusions:
- AS patients generally perceive exercise positively, with benefits scores similar to other chronic conditions.
- Despite perceived benefits, a significant portion of AS patients do not engage in regular exercise.
- Addressing barriers like fatigue may improve exercise adherence in the AS population.
