This prospective pilot study aims to evaluate the efficacy of a structured 8-week multimodal pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) program specifically designed for patients with radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (r-axSpA). The study assesses the impact of a composite intervention incorporating aerobic conditioning, resistance training, flexibility protocols, and targeted diaphragmatic breathing on functional exercise capacity, dyspnea severity, and pulmonary function.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
NA
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
20
An 8-week structured exercise program consisting of three sessions per week (two supervised hospital-based sessions and one structured home-based session). The intervention integrates aerobic conditioning using a treadmill and arm ergometer, resistance and mobility training targeting spinal extension, and specific respiratory muscle training including diaphragmatic and pursed-lip breathing maneuvers.
Balikesir University Faculty of Medicine
Balıkesir, Turkey (Türkiye)
Change in 6-Minute Walk Distance (6MWD)
Functional exercise capacity is measured by the total distance walked in 6 minutes, recorded in meters. Higher values indicate better functional exercise capacity (better outcome).
Time frame: Baseline and Week 8
Change in Forced Vital Capacity (FVC)
Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) is measured via spirometry and expressed as a percentage of the predicted value. Higher percentages indicate better pulmonary volume and respiratory function (better outcome).
Time frame: Baseline and Week 8
Change in Borg Dyspnea Scale
The Modified Borg Dyspnea Scale is used to assess exertional breathlessness. The scale ranges from a minimum of 0 (no dyspnea at all) to a maximum of 10 (maximal dyspnea). Higher scores indicate more severe breathlessness (worse outcome).
Time frame: Baseline and Week 8
Change in BASFI Score
The Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI) assesses the degree of functional limitation in daily activities. The scale ranges from a minimum of 0 to a maximum of 10. Higher scores indicate greater functional impairment and disability (worse outcome).
Time frame: Baseline and Week 8
Change in SF-36 Mental Health Score
The 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) is a health-related quality of life questionnaire. The Mental Health domain is scored from a minimum of 0 to a maximum of 100. Higher scores indicate a more favorable mental health state and better well-being (better outcome).
Time frame: Baseline and Week 8
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