Assessment of Whole Body Cryotherapy in Treatment of Active Axial Spondylarthritis

Assessment of Whole Body Cryotherapy in Treatment of Active Axial Spondylarthritis

Whole body cryotherpy (WBC) is a well-tolerated procedure that implies patients' exposition at a temperature of approximately -110 degrees.

A considerable increase in the popularity of WBC has occurred in rheumatologic patients, despite a lack of evidences of its efficiency.

Because of its interesting anti-inflammatory properties, the investigators think that WBC could be an alternative treatment to classical NSAIDs (Non Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drugs) and corticosteroids, in patients suffering from axial spondyloarthritis.

This is a proof of concept study.

Inclusion Criteria:

• patients suffering from axial spondyloarthritis diagnosed according to ASAS criteria, with sacroiliitis on X-rays or MRI, with active disease (BASDAI > 4/10) despite a stable treatment will be included.

Exclusion Criteria:

• contra indication to cooling,
• previous WBC treatment,
• no social security cover