Evaluating neck muscles and balance in men with ankylosing spondylitis

The Relationship Between Ultrasonographic Measurements of Cervical Multifidus and Longus Colli Muscles and Balance in Male Patients With Ankylosing Spondylitis:Controlled Study

Observational Istanbul Physical Medicine Rehabilitation Training and Research Hospital · NCT06967883

This study is testing how the strength of neck muscles affects balance in men with ankylosing spondylitis compared to healthy men.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment76 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexMale
SponsorIstanbul Physical Medicine Rehabilitation Training and Research Hospital Government
Locations1 site (Istanbul, Bahcelievler)
Trial IDNCT06967883 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the relationship between ultrasonographic measurements of cervical muscles and balance function in male patients diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). A total of 38 AS patients and 38 age-matched healthy male volunteers will undergo assessments including ultrasonographic imaging of the cervical multifidus and longus colli muscles, as well as various balance tests. The study aims to correlate muscle thickness with balance parameters to better understand the impact of AS on physical stability.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are male patients aged 18 to 65 diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis according to the Modified New York Criteria.

Not a fit: Patients with orthopedic, cardiovascular, neurological disorders, or other significant impairments may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into the role of cervical muscle health in balance and stability for patients with ankylosing spondylitis.

How similar studies have performed: While similar studies have explored muscle assessment and balance, this specific approach focusing on cervical muscles in AS patients is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age between 18 and 65 years.
* Diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis according to the Modified New York Criteria (for patient group).
* Cognitive ability sufficient to understand and follow test instructions.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Orthopedic disorders affecting the spine or lower limbs.
* Cardiovascular disorders.
* Neurological disorders.
* Visual or auditory impairments.
* History of surgery involving the spine or lower limbs.
* Psychiatric disorders.
* Cognitive impairment.
* Clinical signs or symptoms of cervical radiculopathy.

Where this trial is running

Istanbul, Bahcelievler

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Ankylosing SpondylitisBalance AssessmentBalanceSpondylarthropathiesSpondylitis, Ankylosingankylosing spondylitisbalancedeep cervical muscles
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.