THE HYPERMOBILITY SYNDROME

  • 1 January 1983
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 72  (5) , 701-706
Abstract
Hypermobility syndrome was recognized as a definitive diagnostic entity among children with musculoskeletal complaints referred to a pediatric arthritis clinic. The diagnosis of hypermobility was made by the ability of the patients to perform at least 3 of the following maneuvers: extension of the wrists and metacarpal phalanges so that the fingers are parallel to the dorsum of the forearm; passive apposition of thumbs to the flexor aspect of the forearm; hyperextension of elbows (.gtoreq. 10.degree.); hyperextension of knees (.gtoreq. 10.degree.); flexion of trunk with knees extended so palms rest on the floor. Of 262 patients, 15 (5.7%) referred to an arthritis clinic between Jan. 1979 and July 1981 were subsequently determined to have hypermobility as the basis for their rheumatic complaints. Of these 15, 3 had concomitant juvenile arthritis. The presenting complaint of pain was most often localized to the knees, hands and fingers. Arthritis and elevated ESR [erythrocyte sedimentation rate] were not seen except in the 3 patients who had concomitant juvenile arthritis. This is an entity not sufficiently well recognized as a source of musculoskeletal complaints in the USA. It will usually respond well to reassurance and symptomatic therapy.

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