FRI0613-HPR THE EFFECTS OF PILATES TRAINING ON RESPIRATORY MUSCLE STRENGHT IN PATIENTS WITH ANKYLOSING SPONDYLITIS

Abstract

Background:Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a chronic, inflammatory rheumatic disease that effects primarily axial spine. Reduction in flexibility and mobility is important factors that can cause muscle weakness, impairment quality of life, reduction of exercise tolerance and pulmonary capacity with the progression of AS.Objectives:The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of pilates exercises on mobility, quality of life and respiratory muscle strength in patients with AS.Methods:Forty patients with AS were randomly divided into two groups as pilates group and control group. Pilates group was performed pilates exercises and control group performed conventional exercises at home for 8 weeks, 3 days a week. Main outcome measures were maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), maximal expiratory pressure (MEP). Secondary outcome measures were Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), Forced expiratory volume in one second/Forced Vital Capacity (FEV1/FVC), chest expansion, Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI), Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Metrology Index (BASMI) and Ankylosing Spondylitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (ASQoL), 6 minutes walk test (6MWT). All participants were assessed by a blind assessor before and after the study.Results:Thirty-six AS patients (n=19 in the pilates group, n= 17 in the control group) completed the study. In the pilates group, respiratory muscle strength, FEV1/FVC, chest expansion, BASDAI, BASMI, ASQoL and 6MWT showed significant improvements at 8thweek (p<0.05), while inspiratory muscle strength, FEV1/FVC, chest expansion and 6MWT showed significant improvements in the control group at 8thweek compared to baseline (p<0.05). Although the pilates group had better outcomes for all parameters compared to the control group, significant differences were only observed in MIP and MEP.Conclusion:Pilates method is an effective method for improving respiratory parameters, spinal mobility, disease activity and quality of life. Additionally, pilates training is found to be superior compared to conventional exercise training in improving respiratory muscle strength.