The effect of exercise training programs with aerobic components on C‐reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate and self‐assessed disease activity in people with ankylosing spondylitis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis

Aim To examine the effect of exercise training programs with aerobic components on C‐reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate and self‐assessed disease activity in people with ankylosing spondylitis compared to non‐aerobic rehabilitation. Methods A systematic review was undertaken of PubMED, Cochrane Library, Embase and Web of Science databases. Articles evaluating the effect of exercise training programs with aerobic components on C‐reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate or Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI) in adults (>17 years) with ankylosing spondylitis were included. Control groups were defined as non‐aerobic rehabilitation, including usual care or physiotherapy. Results Thirteen articles met inclusion criteria for qualitative and meta‐analysis, involving 366 participants undertaking exercise and 361 controls. Exercise programs included modalities such as running, aerobic walking and swimming, and were between 3 weeks and 3 months in duration. Exercise programs significantly reduced C‐reactive protein (weighted mean difference [WMD]: −1.09; 95% CI: −2.08 to −0.10; P = .03; n = 5) and BASDAI (WMD: −0.78; 95% CI: −0.98 to −0.58; P