Ultrasound Assessment of Neck Muscles and Balance in Male Patients With Ankylosing Spondylitis

The Relationship Between Ultrasonographic Measurements of Cervical Multifidus and Longus Colli Muscles and Balance in Male Patients With Ankylosing Spondylitis:Controlled Study

The aim of this study is to evaluate the relationship between ultrasonographic measurements of the cervical muscles and balance parameters in patients diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis (AS)

This study aims to investigate the relationship between cervical multifdus and longus Colli muscles and balance function in male patients diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) according to the Modified New York Criteria. A total of 38 AS patients under regular follow-up at the Istanbul Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Training and Research Hospital Rheumatology Clinic, along with 38 age-matched healthy male volunteers, will be included.

Ultrasonographic Imaging will be performed to assess the thickness and of the cervical multifidus and longus colli muscles.The HUR SmartBalance BTG4 (HUR-Labs Oy, Kokkola, Finland) balance platform will be used to measure postural sway, weight distribution, and the limit of stability (LOS) through a computerized system.The Berg Balance Scale (BBS), The Timed Up and Go (TUG) test,The Single-Leg Stance Test will be conducted, measuring the ability to maintain posture while standing on one leg. Disease Activity and Functional Assessment in AS Patients will be conducted by using The Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI), The Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Metrology Index (BASMI) Additionally, the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI) will be used to measure disease activity and quality of life will be assessed with Ankylosing Spondylitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (ASQoL).Cervical Muscle Strength Measurement will be performed using a hand-held dynamometer, which will objectively assess isometric cervical flexion and extension strength.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age between 18 and 65 years.
• Diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis according to the Modified New York Criteria (for patient group).
• Cognitive ability sufficient to understand and follow test instructions.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Orthopedic disorders affecting the spine or lower limbs.
• Cardiovascular disorders.
• Neurological disorders.
• Visual or auditory impairments.
• History of surgery involving the spine or lower limbs.
• Psychiatric disorders.
• Cognitive impairment.
• Clinical signs or symptoms of cervical radiculopathy.