Physical Activity in Axial Spondyloarthritis: Development and Implementation of an Evidence-Based Health Technology Approach to Improve Adherence to Recommended Guidelines
Despite the known benefits of physical activity, the majority of Canadians fail to meet recommended guidelines. Patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) also fail to meet recommended guidelines. Exercise, a critical component of physical activity, is considered the cornerstone of axSpA management. Simple health technologies such as mobile phone messaging and email can be useful tools to increase engagement in regular physical activity among the general public and patients with chronic disease. As such, the aim of this research project is to develop and test a patient-centered strategy that provides education on the importance of physical activity and utilizes existing health technologies (such as smart phone applications) to encourage regular participation in physical activity. The results of this study are expected to demonstrate that patients with axSpA will increase their daily engagement in physical activity, and therefore improve symptoms, function and overall quality of life.
• Adults (aged 18 and older) with a diagnosis of axSpA based on ASAS criteria
• Have access to email and a smart phone device (Android or iOS operating systems)
• Enrolled in the SPARCC Research Program
• Passes pre-participation health screen