Taekwondo for Axial Spondyloarthritis

Launched by WONJU SEVERANCE CHRISTIAN HOSPITAL · Feb 6, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying the effects of Taekwondo training on adults with ankylosing spondylitis and axial spondyloarthritis, which are types of arthritis that primarily affect the spine. The researchers want to find out if practicing Taekwondo can improve symptoms, help people feel better in their daily lives, and if it is safe for those with these conditions. Participants will be divided into two groups: one group will take part in Taekwondo training for 12 weeks, while the other group will continue with their usual treatments for the same period. After 12 weeks, everyone will have a chance to experience the Taekwondo training.

To be eligible for this study, participants need to be between 19 and 59 years old and have a diagnosis of axial spondyloarthritis. They must have stable treatment for at least three months before starting the trial. However, those with certain health issues, like recent surgeries, heart problems, or advanced disease in their spine, cannot participate. Throughout the trial, participants will be assessed before and after the training to see how it has impacted their health and well-being. This study aims to explore whether Taekwondo could be a beneficial exercise option for adults dealing with these musculoskeletal conditions.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Diagnosed with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) according to the ASAS classification criteria.
• • 2. Age: Between 19 and 59 years old.
• 3. Stable medication or non-medication treatment:
• • Patients whose medication regimen has remained stable for at least the past 3 months.
• • Patients who have not taken medication for axSpA for at least the past 3 months.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• Participants will be excluded from the study if they meet any of the following conditions:
• • 1. History of orthopedic surgery or fractures within the past 12 months.
• • 2. History of cardiovascular diseases, including ischemic heart disease, cardiomyopathy, heart failure, or stroke.
• 3. Advanced ankylosis in ankylosing spondylitis, as confirmed by radiographic or CT imaging:
• • - Complete ankylosis of at least two regions of the cervical, lumbar, or thoracic spine (i.e., continuous syndesmophyte formation or complete ossification between vertebral bodies).
• • 4. Presence of other musculoskeletal abnormalities or conditions that may limit exercise performance.
• • 5. Diagnosis of cancer within the past 5 years
• • 6. Pregnancy
• • 7. Regular exercise participation within the past 6 months (defined as exercising for at least 60 minutes per session, three or more times per week).
• 8. Major changes in medication for axial spondyloarthritis during the study period, including:
• • 1. Initiation or discontinuation of biologic agents or targeted therapies.
• • 2. Significant changes in the continued use of NSAIDs or sulfasalazine.
• • 3. Significant changes in the continued use of systemic glucocorticoids.