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The effect of exercise training programs with aerobic components on C‐reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate and self‐assessed disease activity in people with ankylosing spondylitis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Author(s) -
Harpham Conrad,
Harpham Quillon K.,
Barker Alan R.
Publication year - 2022
Publication title -
international journal of rheumatic diseases
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.795
H-Index - 41
eISSN - 1756-185X
pISSN - 1756-1841
DOI - 10.1111/1756-185x.14315
Subject(s) - erythrocyte sedimentation rate , ankylosing spondylitis , basdai , medicine , aerobic exercise , physical therapy , basfi , rehabilitation , spondylitis , meta analysis , disease , psoriatic arthritis
Aim To examine the effect of exercise training programs with aerobic components on C‐reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate and self‐assessed disease activity in people with ankylosing spondylitis compared to non‐aerobic rehabilitation. Methods A systematic review was undertaken of PubMED, Cochrane Library, Embase and Web of Science databases. Articles evaluating the effect of exercise training programs with aerobic components on C‐reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate or Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI) in adults (>17 years) with ankylosing spondylitis were included. Control groups were defined as non‐aerobic rehabilitation, including usual care or physiotherapy. Results Thirteen articles met inclusion criteria for qualitative and meta‐analysis, involving 366 participants undertaking exercise and 361 controls. Exercise programs included modalities such as running, aerobic walking and swimming, and were between 3 weeks and 3 months in duration. Exercise programs significantly reduced C‐reactive protein (weighted mean difference [WMD]: −1.09; 95% CI: −2.08 to −0.10; P = .03; n = 5) and BASDAI (WMD: −0.78; 95% CI: −0.98 to −0.58; P < .001; n = 13) compared to non‐aerobic rehabilitation. BASDAI subgroup analysis revealed greater improvements compared to usual care than structured physiotherapy. Exercise programs did not reduce erythrocyte sedimentation rate (WMD: 0.16; 95% CI: −2.15 to 2.47; P = .89; n = 4). Conclusion Exercise training programs with aerobic components reduced C‐reactive protein and improved self‐assessed disease activity in people with ankylosing spondylitis. Further research is required to investigate the effects of differing aerobic exercise modes, intensities and durations.