Abstract

Introduction:Joint hypermobility (JH) may be the extreme of normal range of motion or one condition in the polygenic group of inherited disorders of connective tissue. It is found in about 40% of the population depending on which variables are used for its classification. It may be associated with musculoskeletal and extra skeletal disorders in which case it is called Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome-hypermobility type. Objective:To investigate JH in a Brazilian sample of school children using the variables of the Beighton score and possible correlations between these variables and with selected variables of the Brighton score. Additionally, to study the effect of gender, ethnicity, playing of musical instruments such as the piano, and regular physical activity on each of the analyzed parameters. Method:In 2013, a study was performed of 1749 physically normal and apparently healthy 7 to 12 year old pupils in government schools, irrespective of gender. Variables of the Beighton score (JH of the fifth finger, wrist, elbow, knee and trunk) was used to identify children with JH. Results:JH was detected in 41% of the children. Of the children with JH, about 60% were female and 55% were Caucasians. Hyperextension of the fifth finger was the most common feature, followed by apposition of the thumb and hyperextension of the elbow; joint pain was reported by 34.6% and 10.6% used eyeglasses. Conclusion:The prevalence of JH in Brazilian children is similar to a study in a Chilean population; most are female and Caucasians. There are high errates of JH of the upper limbs,which is important for children who play musical instruments. There is an association between hyperextension of the knee and apposition of the thumb and also between hyperextension of the knee, apposition of the thumb, hyperextension of the 5th finger and hyperextension of the elbow. Further population studies of children in Latin America are needed.

Authors and Affiliations