axSpA Track
FORGE Maternal
Duration
3 phases · Pre-Conception (≥3 mo), Pregnancy, Postpartum
Structure
Trimester-specific, companion to FORGE
Delivery
Virtual
About this protocol
FORGE Maternal is the reproductive-continuum companion to FORGE. Roughly 50–60% of axSpA patients report stable or improved symptoms during pregnancy while 40–50% worsen, and postpartum flares are common — so the module covers pre-conception counselling, pregnancy biomechanical and pharmacological adaptations, postpartum pelvic girdle pain management, and return to exercise. It integrates EULAR pregnancy guidelines, BSR prescribing guidance, and European Network of Pregnancy Registries in Rheumatology (EuNeP) evidence.
Clinical authors
- Angelo Papachristos, PT, ACPAC
- Dr. Dharini Mahendira, MD
Evidence base
FORGE Maternal is derived from systematic review and randomized controlled trial evidence in axSpA — Pre-Conception, Pregnancy & Postpartum. Protocol parameters — phase structure, load progression, and outcome measures — align with EULAR, ACR, and ASAS exercise-therapy recommendations. Outcome tracking favours open-access PROMIS instruments where validated equivalents exist.
View the evidence library →Outcome measures
- All FORGE core measures
- BASDAI / ASDAS (trimester-specific monitoring)
- Pelvic floor strength assessment
- Pelvic Girdle Pain screen (postpartum)
- Spinal mobility maintenance (BASMI)
PROMIS short forms are free, NIH-developed measures used in place of paid legacy instruments.
What's included
- Virtual assessment with a certified exercise therapist
- Personalised programme plan
- Live-virtual group or individual sessions
- Asynchronous guided home programme
- Regular ePRO check-ins with adaptive progression
- Care coordinator support
- Programme completion report
Interested in this protocol?
Speak to us about adding FORGE Maternal to your PSP or benefits plan.
Request a pilotFor patients