Prevalence of generalized joint hypermobility, arthralgia and motor competence in 10-year-old school children

AbstractObjectivesDiverging results exist for children regarding the relation between generalized joint hypermobility (GJH) and musculoskeletal complaints, as well as relations between GJH and insufficient motor development, and/or reduced physical activity level. The main purposes were to (1) survey the prevalence of GJH and of benign joint hypermobility syndrome (BJHS) in 10-year-old children, (2) compare children with and without GJH and BJHS regarding motor competence, physical activity, and musculoskeletal pain and injuries.Subjects and methodsAll fourth-grade children in a Copenhagen municipality were invited to be clinically examined and tested for motor competence, and to answer a questionnaire about musculoskeletal pain, injuries, and physical activity.ResultsThe final cohort comprised 315 Caucasian children, 50.5% girls and 54% boys. GJH prevalence was 35.6, 16.8, or 11.1%, depending on GJH cut level 4, 5, or 6, without significant motor competence difference between non-GJH and GJH children. Gi...