Feldenkrais-Core Integration Method in Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Pilot Study

Background: It is widely accepted that rehabilitation combined with pharmacological approach could improve pain, spinal mobility and functional status in ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Feldenkrais-Core Integration (FCI) method is a mind body therapy based on low impact exercises focusing on better body organization, postural re-education and balance improvement. Aims: Our aim was to assess in a pilot study the utility and feasibility of FCI approach in the treatment of AS. Setting: Outpatient Clinic of the Division of Rheumatology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence. Methods: Ten AS patients were recruited to perform a FCI physiotherapic program of 10 supervised group sessions (60 min, twice a week). Clinic and clinimetric measurements including pain, fatigue, global health status (VAS), disease effect on wellbeing (BAS-G), functional status (BASFI, HAQ-S), disease activity (BASDAI), enthesitis (MASES) and anthropometric measurements of lumbar mobility and cervical mobility were assessed at baseline (t=0) and at the end of the study (t=1). At t=1 patients’ satisfaction, attendance rate and attrition rate were assessed. Only descriptive statistics was performed. Results: Our results showed improvements in pain, fatigue, global health status, BAS-G, BASFI, HAQ-S, MASES, BASDAI, lumbar lateral flexion and cervical range of motion (cervical forward flexion, extension, lateral flexion and rotation) at the end of the study compared to the baseline. Greater improvements in percentage are found in pain, fatigue, self perceived health status, functionality and tenderness on enthesial sites. No dropouts were registered.