Generalized joint hypermobility and neck pain: Prevalence and functional correlates from a community-based sample

Area of Science:

• Musculoskeletal health
• Biomedical research
• Clinical epidemiology

Background:

• Generalized Joint Hypermobility (GJH) is prevalent but its impact on neck pain and function is not well understood.
• Neck pain is a common complaint with significant disability.
• Understanding GJH's role is crucial for effective management of neck conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between GJH, neck pain burden (pain and disability), and neck function (range of motion and strength).
• To explore potential interactions between GJH and neck pain burden on functional outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study of 555 adults at a state fair, including GJH assessments and neck pain surveys.
• A subset underwent neck function testing (range of motion, strength) and completed the Neck Disability Index.
• Multivariable regression analyses were used to examine associations and interaction effects, primarily in females due to sample size limitations.

Main Results:

• GJH was more prevalent in females (23.5%) than males (6.8%).
• Females with GJH reported higher neck pain prevalence (24.1% vs 16.0%).
• Among females, GJH was associated with greater multi-directional range of motion and strength, and interactions indicated GJH modifies the disability-function relationship.

Conclusions:

• Females with GJH exhibit higher neck pain prevalence and enhanced range of motion and strength.
• GJH appears to modify the relationship between neck disability and function, suggesting a distinct phenotype.
• Findings from this community-based cohort highlight GJH as a relevant factor in neck pain presentations.