The effects of balance and postural stability exercises on spa based rehabilitation programme in patients with ankylosing spondylitis

BACKGROUND: Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) can cause severe functional disorders that lead to loss of balance. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of balance and postural stability exercises on spa based rehabilitation programme in AS subjects. METHODS: Twenty-one participants were randomized to the study (n= 11) and control groups (n= 10). Patients balance and stability were assessed with the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Timed Up and Go (TUG) Test, Single Leg Stance Test (SLST) and Functional Reach Test (FRT). AS spesicied measures were used for assessing to other parameters. The treatment plan for both groups consisted of conventional transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), spa and land-based exercises 5 days per week for 3 weeks. The study group performed exercises based on postural stability and balance with routine physiotherapy practice in thermal water and in exercise room. RESULTS: The TUG, SLST and FUT scores were significantly increased in the study group. In both groups, the BASMI, BASFI, BASDAI and ASQoL scores decreased significantly by the end of the treatment period (p< 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: In AS rehabilitation, performing balance and stability exercises in addition to spa based routine approaches can increase the duration of maintaining balance and can improve the benefits of physiotherapy.