Muscle function and physical performance of children with and without hypermobility

Children with multiple flexible joints or Generalized Joint Hypermobility (GJH) may present with symptoms including pain, muscle weakness, fatigue and reduced participation in everyday activities. In this study we will be comparing children with and without hypermobility and aim to determine if there is a relationship between joint mobility, pain, motor function, participation in everyday activities and quality of life. Our aim is for early identification of which children are likely to become symptomatic, to enable preventative strategies to be implemented earlier.

In Part A of this study, children will have one assessment by an experienced physiotherapist via Telehealth (videoconferencing) which will take 60 minutes at home. In addition, there is an option to participate in a repeat face to face assessment by the same physiotherapist which will take 60 minutes either in the child’s home, UQ or Kids Care Physiotherapy Clinic, whichever is the most convenient for the family.

In the Telehealth assessment, joint range of movement of the spine, shoulders, elbows, hands, hips, knees and feet will be assessed using eHAB^TM digital measurement software and some motor skills such as jumping, standing on one leg and drawing shapes will be assessed. A standardized questionnaire will be used to assess Pain and Health Related Quality of Life. All items are safe and will not cause any discomfort.

Participant benefits:

Participants will receive a copy of their assessment results. This may be of benefit as it will provide information on the extent of hypermobility, level of pain and muscle strength your child may have and how these factors affect their physical function, participation in activities and quality of life when compared to their peers.

Eligibility:

Inclusion criteria: Children aged from 6 -12 years inclusive.

Exclusion criteria:

(i) Children who have heritable disorders of connective tissue, e.g, Marfans or most types or Ehlers Danlos Syndrome but those with hypermobile Ehlers Danlos can be included

(ii) Other syndromes or complex medical or neurological conditions

(iii) Intellectual impairment or behaviour disorders that impact on their ability to follow instructions.

Register your interest:

Contact Elizabeth Hornsby: e.hornsby@uqconnect.edu.au or 0438 336671

This study has been approved by The University of Queensland Human Research Ethics Committee [Approval No. 2019001361]