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Beighton score: a valid measure for generalized hypermobility in children
Bouwien Smits-Engelsman1, Mariëtte Klerks, Amanda Kirby
1Faculty of Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Sciences, K.U. Leuven, Avans, University for Professionals, Breda, The Netherlands. bengelsman@avansplus.nl
The Journal of Pediatrics
|September 21, 2010
Summary
The Beighton score effectively measures joint hypermobility in children aged 6-12. This study found over 35% of children scored high, with pain prevalence independent of the Beighton score.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric rheumatology
- Orthopedics
- Physical therapy
Background:
- Joint hypermobility is a common condition in children.
- The Beighton score is widely used to assess hypermobility.
- Its validity in pediatric populations requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To validate the Beighton score for generalized hypermobility assessment in children.
- To determine the prevalence of hypermobility and associated joint pain in school-aged children.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study involving 551 Dutch elementary school children (ages 6-12).
- Assessment using the Beighton score by physiotherapists.
- Goniometry used to measure 16 passive joint ranges of motion.
Main Results:
- Over 35% of children scored >5/9 on the Beighton score.
- High Beighton scores correlated with increased range of motion in other joints.
- 12.3% reported joint pain, 9.1% pain after exercise, independent of Beighton score.
- No significant sex-based differences in Beighton scores were observed.
Conclusions:
- The Beighton score, combined with goniometry, is a valid tool for measuring generalized joint mobility in children aged 6-12.
- The current Beighton score scale is sufficient and requires no additional items for this age group.
