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Association between hypermobility and congenital limb deficiencies
1Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University Hospital of South Manchester, UK.
Clinical Rehabilitation
|February 12, 2002
Summary
Individuals with congenital limb deficiencies show a higher prevalence of joint hypermobility. This increased laxity in remaining joints may lead to further complications, highlighting the need for identification.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Genetics
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Congenital limb deficiency is a condition present from birth.
- Hypermobility, or joint laxity, is a common condition with varying prevalence.
- The relationship between congenital limb deficiency and hypermobility is not well-established.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of hypermobility in individuals with congenital limb deficiencies.
- To investigate if congenital limb loss is associated with increased laxity in remaining joints.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 45 individuals with congenital limb deficiencies (ages 6-31) was studied.
- Data were collected during routine prosthetic clinic visits.
- A modified Beighton Score was used to assess joint hypermobility, with a score of 3 or more indicating hypermobility.
Main Results:
- 71% of individuals with congenital limb deficiencies had at least one hypermobile joint.
- 38% exhibited three or more features of hypermobility.
- A higher prevalence of hypermobility was observed in females.
Conclusions:
- Individuals with congenital limb deficiencies have an increased prevalence of joint hypermobility compared to the general population.
- Joint hypermobility can predispose individuals to conditions like low back pain and joint dislocations.
- Identifying hypermobility in this population is clinically significant for preventative care.