A LONGITUDINAL OBSERVATIONAL STUDY to EVALUATE the EFFICACY of MOVEMENT and IMPLEMENT CONCRETE MOVEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS with the HELP of MOBILITY TRACKING with SMARTWATCHES in SUBJECTS with AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS
This study is looking into how daily movement affects people living with axial spondyloarthritis, a long-term inflammatory condition affecting the spine. Even with modern treatments, many people still struggle with pain and reduced quality of life. We know that staying active is important for managing this condition, but it's not clear exactly what kind, how often, or how intense this activity should be. Researchers are using smartwatches to track participants' movement, heart rate, and other fitness details over six months. At the same time, participants will regularly complete surveys about their symptoms, pain, and how they're feeling. The goal is to find out which specific movements are most helpful for controlling the condition and to develop practical, personalised exercise recommendations.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Axial spondyloarthritis (AxSpA) is a type of arthritis that mainly affects your spine and can cause long-term pain and stiffness. It's an autoimmune condition, meaning your body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues. While there are treatments available, many people still find their daily lives are affected.
We know that physical activity is really important for managing AxSpA, helping to control symptoms and improve how you feel. However, what's missing are clear, specific guidelines on what types of movement, how often, and at what intensity are most beneficial. This study aims to fill that gap by looking closely at how everyday movement relates to your condition.
By carefully tracking participants' activity with smartwatches and regularly checking in on their symptoms, pain, and quality of life, the researchers hope to understand this connection better. The main goal is to create practical, useful advice for people with AxSpA on how to best use movement to manage their condition, potentially preventing symptom flare-ups and helping them recover more quickly.
Key takeaways
- This study uses smartwatches to track daily movement.
- It aims to create clear exercise advice for people with axial spondyloarthritis.
- Participation involves wearing a smartwatch and completing app-based surveys for six months.
- You'll continue your usual medical care and appointments.
- The goal is to understand how movement helps manage this condition and reduce flare-ups.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for people who have been diagnosed with axial spondyloarthritis. You need to be at least 18 years old to take part.
There are a few practical requirements. You'll need to own an iPhone because the study uses a special app designed for it. You must also be able to wear a smartwatch every day and be happy to regularly fill out surveys from home about how you're feeling.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Do you have axial spondyloarthritis?
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Do you own an iPhone?
- Are you able and willing to wear a smartwatch every day?
- Are you able to regularly fill out surveys on your phone at home?
What does participation involve?
If you join this study, you'll be involved for six months. During this time, you'll wear a smartwatch every day, which will track your movement, exercise, heart rate, and other physical information. You'll also use a special app on your iPhone to regularly complete surveys about your symptoms, pain, and how your condition is affecting you. These surveys will need to be filled out every two weeks.
You'll also continue with your usual clinic visits, which happen every three months. During these visits, the doctors will talk to you about your medical history and do a physical examination, just as they normally would. At the end of the six months, the information collected from your smartwatch and surveys will be sent from your phone to the research team for analysis. There are no new medications involved in this study.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- University Hospital, Department for RheumatologyVerified postcodeBonn, Germany· Recruiting
Common questions
What is axial spondyloarthritis?
It's a long-term type of arthritis that mostly affects your spine, causing pain and stiffness. It's an autoimmune condition.
Why is this study important?
It aims to find out exactly what kind of movement and exercise is most helpful for people with axial spondyloarthritis to manage their symptoms and improve their health.
Do I need to change my medication?
No, this study does not involve new medications. You will continue with your usual treatment plan as advised by your doctor.
What do I need to do if I join?
You'll wear a smartwatch for six months, use a special iPhone app to fill out surveys every two weeks, and attend your regular clinic appointments.
How long will I be in the study?
Your participation will last for six months.
How to find out more
Prof. Dr. med. Valentin S. Schaefer
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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