The use of baropodometry for the evaluation of plantar pressure distribution in ankylosing spondylitis

Abstract

Abstract Aim: Ankylosing Spondylitis is among the most common inflammatory rheumatic diseases and associated with postural alterations. The aim was to investigate the baropodometric variations between patients with ankylosing spondylitis to detect whether postural alterations affect plantar pressure distribution. Materials and Methods: The study population consisted of 41 patients with ankylosing spondylitis and 32 volunteers with compatible age and gender. Moreover, Visual Analog Scale, and Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Metrology Index were used to determine the clinical conditions of the patients. Plantar pressure distribution was determined by static baropodometric measurements. Results: There was no significant difference between two groups in terms of static baropodometric measurements (p>0.05). The lower peak pressures on the forefoot and rear foot are associated with higher BASMI, BASDAI, BASFI and ASQoL scores of the patients (p< 0.05). Conclusion: Postural alterations might have an impact on plantar pressure in patients with ankylosing spondylitis. Keywords: Ankylosing Spondylitis; Baropodometry; Postural Stability; Plantar Pressure.