Active not recruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Walking Football for Axial Spondyloarthritis

This study is exploring if Walking Football could be a good type of exercise for people living with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). AxSpA is a long-term condition that causes pain and stiffness in the back and neck. Regular exercise is already recommended to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life, but structured programmes can be hard to find. The study wants to see if twice-weekly Walking Football sessions can be a safe and effective way for people with axSpA to get active. Walking Football is a gentle game where players can't run or jump, making it suitable for those with some mobility issues. Researchers will check if it helps with pain, stiffness, and overall well-being, and if it's something that can be easily offered in the community.

At a glance

Status

Active not recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Portsmouth Hospitals NHS Trust

Enrolment target

Start

20 Oct 2025

Estimated completion

01 May 2026

Axial Spondyloarthritis

What is this study about?

This study is about finding new ways to help people in the Portsmouth area who have a condition called axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). AxSpA is a long-term illness that mostly affects the spine, causing pain and stiffness in the back and neck. Doctors often advise people with axSpA to do regular exercise to help them stay flexible, keep moving, and generally live a better life.

While some people with axSpA might get special water-based exercises (hydrotherapy), there isn't currently a regular, organised exercise programme specifically for the many people with axSpA in Portsmouth. This study suggests that Walking Football could fill this gap. Walking Football is a version of football where you can't run, jump, or tackle hard, and the ball stays low. This means it's suitable for people who might have some trouble moving easily, making it a good option for people with axSpA.

The research team believes that playing Walking Football twice a week could offer several benefits. Not only would it provide regular physical activity, which is important for strong bones and joints, but it also gives people a chance to learn skills, meet new friends, and feel more connected to others. These social aspects are really important for mental well-being too. The study will last 12 weeks and aims to find out if Walking Football is safe and effective for people with axSpA, and if it's something that could be offered more widely in the future.

Key takeaways

Exploring Walking Football as a safe way to exercise for axSpA.
Aims to improve pain, stiffness, flexibility, and overall well-being.
No running or jumping, suitable for people with mobility issues.
Offers social connection and learning new skills.
A 12-week study, attending sessions twice a week.

Who may be eligible?

To be considered for this study, you need to have a confirmed diagnosis of axial spondyloarthritis, which should be documented in your medical records. You also need to be able to walk by yourself without needing walking aids, like a stick or frame. You should also be able to understand and speak English well.

There's no upper age limit for taking part, so people of all adult ages are welcome to join if they meet the other criteria. The researchers are looking for people who are genuinely interested in trying Walking Football as part of their axSpA management.

However, you won't be able to join if you are under 18 years old, or if your disability is severe enough to prevent you from safely playing Walking Football. You also need to be able to commit to attending at least 18 out of the 24 planned sessions. If you already play Walking Football regularly elsewhere, you wouldn't be eligible for this study.

Quick self-check

Do you have a confirmed diagnosis of axial spondyloarthritis?
Can you walk independently without aids?
Are you 18 years old or older?
Are you able to attend 18 out of 24 planned sessions?
Are you not currently a regular Walking Football player elsewhere?

This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you would be asked to attend two Walking Football sessions each week over a period of 12 weeks. These sessions will be led by trained coaches. The study will involve some regular checks to see how you are doing, including looking at your physical health and asking you about your pain, stiffness, and general well-being. These assessments will help the researchers understand if Walking Football is making a difference. You won't be given any new medication as part of this study, as it's focused on the exercise itself. The total duration of your active involvement in the study would be approximately 12 weeks of sessions, plus any initial and final assessments.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could offer several potential benefits. You would get regular, structured exercise tailored to your needs, which might help reduce your pain and stiffness, improve your mobility, and boost your overall quality of life. You'd also have the chance to learn a new skill and meet other people, which can be good for your mental health. As with any physical activity, there's always a small risk of minor injuries like muscle soreness or strains, but the Walking Football rules (no running, jumping, or hard tackling) are designed to make it as safe as possible for people with mobility challenges. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust
Portsmouth, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA)?

AxSpA is a long-term condition that causes pain and stiffness, mainly in the spine, neck, and sometimes other joints. It's a type of inflammatory arthritis.

What is Walking Football?

It's a slower, non-contact version of football where players aren't allowed to run or jump, and the ball must stay below head height. It's designed to be inclusive and safer for people with varying fitness levels.

How long does the study last?

The exercise part of the study involves attending Walking Football sessions twice a week for 12 weeks.

Do I need to be good at football to join?

No, you don't need any prior football experience or special skill. Walking Football is designed for everyone, including beginners.

Will I have to stop my current axSpA treatment?

No, this study is about adding Walking Football to your current treatment, not replacing it. You should continue with your usual medical care.