Motor Performance in Children with Generalized Hypermobility: The Influence of Muscle Strength and Exercise Capacity

Article

<p>PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to investigate whether muscle strength and functional exercise capacity (FEC) influence motor performance in children with generalized joint hypermobility.</p><p>METHODS: Forty-one children (mean age: 8.1 years) with symptomatic generalized hypermobility were included. Motor performance was assessed using the Körperkoordinationstest für Kinder (KTK) and the Movement Assessment Battery for Children. Muscle strength and FEC were measured with a handheld dynamometer and the 6-minute walk test.</p><p>RESULTS: Only muscle strength was significantly positively associated with motor performance on the KTK. FEC was significantly decreased. Children's scores on the KTK were significantly lower (p < 0.001) compared with scores on the Movement Assessment Battery for Children.</p><p>CONCLUSIONS: The KTK is a more sensitive tool for detecting motor problems in children with generalized joint hypermobility, but is not associated with FEC. Along with the KTK, the 6-minute walk test can be used to independently assess and evaluate FEC.</p>

Reference Hanewinkel-van Kleef, Y. B., Helders, P. J. M., Takken, T., & Engelbert, R. H. (2009). Motor Performance in Children with Generalized Hypermobility: The Influence of Muscle Strength and Exercise Capacity. Pediatric Physical Therapy, 21(2), 194-200. https://doi.org/10.1097/PEP.0b013e3181a3ac5f
Published by  Urban Vitality 1 July 2009

Publication date

Jul 2009

Author(s)

Yvonne B. Hanewinkel-van Kleef
Paul J.M. Helders
Tim Takken

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