Occupational Therapy Approaches to Assessment and Intervention for Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a progressive form of spondyloarthritis involving inflammation of the spine, accompanied by deficits in occupational performance. Although occupational therapy (OT) for AS is not as widely documented as in other professions, studies have examined the benefits of OT on pain, function, and disability among AS patients. This review explored assessments and interventions used by OT practitioners working with AS clients, impairments addressed, and settings of practice. Eight databases and gray literature were searched in April 2024. A total of 17 records were included. The only standardized assessment tool implemented was the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM). The most common interventions were joint or spinal protection strategies and adaptive equipment training, followed by ADL or functional training. Although findings suggest that OT practitioners support people with AS in many health care settings, there is still limited research, and additional studies are needed to best guide evidence-based practice.

Plain Language Summary

How Occupational Therapy Practitioners Work With Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Review of Current Approaches to Assessment and Treatment

Ankylosing spondylitis is a progressive form of arthritis that causes inflammation and fusion of the joints in the spine and pelvis. People with this condition often have pain and stiffness in their lower back, making it difficult to sleep and complete daily routines. Occupational therapy practitioners help people improve their ability to participate in everyday tasks, especially those living with chronic conditions like arthritis. This review aimed to find all existing articles about how occupational therapy practitioners assess and treat the challenges faced by people with ankylosing spondylitis. Seventeen relevant articles were found, showing that occupational therapy services are provided for people with ankylosing spondylitis across most health care settings. One tool commonly used by occupational therapy practitioners was the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM), which helps people identify daily activities that are most important to them and rate how well they think they can do those activities over time. Common treatment approaches included teaching people how to protect their spines, using assistive equipment to support daily routines, and making changes to their home or work environments. These findings suggest that occupational therapy practitioners play an important role in helping people with ankylosing spondylitis manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life across multiple health care settings.