Ultrasonographic Assessment of Thoracolumbar Fascia in AxSpA and Controls With Trigger Point Evaluation

The goal of this observational study is to evaluate whether changes in the thoracolumbar fascia (TLF)-a connective tissue in the lower back-are related to pain and disease severity in patients with axial spondyloarthropathy (ax-SpA), a chronic inflammatory spine condition. The study involves adults diagnosed with ax-SpA and healthy volunteers of similar age and gender. The main questions it aims to answer are: Is the thickness or shape of the thoracolumbar fascia different in patients with ax-SpA compared to healthy individuals? Is there a relationship between changes in the thoracolumbar fascia and the presence of painful muscle trigger points? Researchers will compare measurements in ax-SpA patients and healthy volunteers to see if differences in fascia structure are linked to pain, function, and disease activity. Participants will: Undergo a back ultrasound (non-invasive imaging) to assess the thickness and structure of the thoracolumbar fascia. Be examined for muscle trigger points using gentle manual palpation. Complete questionnaires and assessments on physical function, quality of life, and disease activity.