Comparison of core stabilization and balance in healthy controls and patients with ankylosing spondylitis

Objective: Comparison of core stabilization and balance in healthy controls and ankylosing spondylitis(AS) patients and determine whether there is impairment in core stabilization and balance in AS patients. Method: 64 AS patients and 64 healthy subjects were assessed. For evaluation of core stabilization, endurance tests were used and hip strength were assessed. Trunk flexor, extansor endurance tests and lateral side bridge test for static core endurance and sit up test for dynamic core endurance were used. Hip extension, abduction, external rotation strength were evaluated with hand held dynamometer. Biodex Balance System was used to evaluate balance. Stable platform, unstable platform, single leg stance postural stability and limits of stability results were recorded. Results: There were no significiant differences between groups regarding to gender, age, weight, height, body mass index(p>0,05). In AS patients, trunk flexor, extensor endurance and lateral side bridge test times were significantly lower than control group (p <0,05). Sit up test results was significiantly higher in control group (p= 0,002). Hip abduction strength of AS group was significantly lower than healthy group (p <0.05). In control group stable platform bilateral stance and left leg stance postural stability results were better and overall, forward, backward, right limits of stability results were higher than AS group. Conclusion: AS has negative effects on core stabilization and balance. According to the results of this study, it would be beneficial to add core stabilization and balance training to the AS patients' rehabilitation program. Key Words: ankylosing spondylitis, core stabiization, balance