Physiotherapy for ankylosing spondylitis: evidence and application.

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Physical Therapy
• Evidence-Based Practice

Background:

• Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) predominantly affects young adults, necessitating current evidence in physiotherapy.
• Integrating up-to-date research into clinical practice is crucial for managing AS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To update the evidence on physiotherapy interventions for ankylosing spondylitis.
• To guide current physiotherapy research and clinical application for AS.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of recently published articles on physiotherapy for AS.
• Analysis of studies examining exercise and other physiotherapy modalities.

Main Results:

• Physiotherapy, particularly exercise, is supported as an intervention for AS.
• Evidence supports exercise, spa therapy, manual therapy, and electrotherapeutic modalities.
• Identified beneficiaries and barriers for specific interventions.

Conclusions:

• Recent studies reinforce physiotherapy's efficacy in managing AS.
• Further exploration of non-exercise physiotherapy modalities is recommended.
• Continued research is vital for advancing AS management.