The effect of generalized joint hypermobility on functional capacity, pulmonary function, respiratory muscle strength, and chest expansion in healthy young adults

Aim: Genetic involvement of connective tissue containing elastin, collagen, and fibrils in joint hypermobility determines the tightness and laxity of the ligaments, thereby increasing the possibility of injuries by affecting the stability of joint capsules and the extensibility of tendons. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of generalized joint hypermobility (GJH) on respiratory function, respiratory muscle strength, chest expansion, and functional capacity in healthy young adults. Material and Method: Thirty subjects aged between 18-25 years with a four or higher Beighton Score were included as the GJH group, and 30 healthy age-gender volunteers with three or lower scores were included as the control group. Functional capacity was measured with the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), the quadriceps muscle strength with a digital dynamometer, pulmonary function and respiratory muscle strength with a spirometry, and chest expansion with a tapeline. Results: There were significant differences in the 6MWT distance (p=0.017), FVC (p=0.001), FEV1 (p=0.001), and MEP (p<0.001) while no significant differences were observed in quadriceps muscle strength, FEV1/FVC, PEF, and MIP (p>0.05). There is a significant difference in the xiphoid (p<0.001) and subcostal (p<0.001) measurement in the chest expansion value, and no difference in the axillary measurement (p=0.071). Conclusion: The results of this study demonstrated that functional capacity, pulmonary functions, respiratory muscle strength, and chest expansion may be affected in young adults with GJH. In this study, it was found that the values that required a forced expiratory maneuver were affected. This suggests that the abdominal muscles, which play an important role in forced expiration, may also be affected by changes in the muscles due to deterioration in the connective tissue.