PloS one
Vigorous physical activity and physical function are strongly associated with better health in patients with long-standing radiographic axial spondyloarthritis
By Feldthusen C, Hallström M, Hulander E and 2 others.
Abstract
Objectives
To evaluate the impact of physical function and level of physical activity on health status and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with long-standing radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (r-axSpA).
Methods
In total, 141 patients with long-standing r-axSpA were included in this cross-sectional cohort study. Assessments included physical function (Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI)), spinal mobility (modified Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Metrology Index (BASMI)), muscle function for leg strength (Timed Stands Test (TST)) and handgrip force (Grippit), amount of self-reported physical activity (vigorous physical activity, moderate physical activity, sedentary behavior), health status by ASAS Health Index (ASAS HI) and HRQoL with Short Form Survey Instrument 36-Item. Multivariable linear regression was used to analyze associations between health status, HRQoL, physical activity, muscle function, and physical function.