The links between Generalized Joint Laxity and the incidence, prevalence and severity of limb injuries related to physical exercise: a systematic literature review

Abstract

Background: Generalized Joint Laxity (GJL) is a significant risk factor for lower limb injury incidence and prevalence in sporting populations. However, the links with upper limb injury and injury severity in a wider population of people undertaking physical exercise have not been systematically reviewed to date.

Objectives: The primary aim was to determine the links between GJL and the incidence, prevalence and severity of upper and lower limb injuries related to physical exercise. Secondary aims were to identify the quality of the existing research evidence and gaps within the literature that may warrant future research.

Methods: Relevant literature was identified using online databases (SportDiscus, Medline, CINAHL and EMBASE OVID) and snowballing. Research papers with a primary aim of identifying a link between GJL and upper and lower limb injury incidence, prevalence and/or severity were included. The population of interest was those undertaking physical exercise, not limited to sport. Included papers were critically appraised and a narrative synthesis conducted.

Results: A total of 274 studies were identified. Following application of the inclusion and exclusion criteria, nine papers were selected for critical appraisal that investigated the link between GJL and the incidence, prevalence and/or severity of limb injuries. The link between GJL and lower limb injury incidence and prevalence was supported across numerous types of physical exercise. However, the links between GJL and upper limb injury, and injury severity was inconclusive.

Conclusions: GJL is associated with increased lower limb injury incidence and prevalence. Future research should investigate the links between GJL, upper limb injury and injury severity.

Keywords:

• Exercise
• generalized Joint Laxity
• injuries
• incidence
• prevalence

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Alexander Tingle

Alexander Tingle is a sports rehabilitator currently working as a neurotheapy assistant within the acute stroke unit at the John Radcliffe hospital, Oxford. His main interests regarding practice and research are neurorehabilitation and functional biomechanics.

Oliver Bennett

Oliver Bennett graduated from the University of the West of England with a degree in Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation. He currently works in a duo alongside the Head of Medical at Cheltenham Town Football Club. As well as rehabilitation his interests also lie with Sports Biomechanics, hoping to develop that interest through further education to aid his professional practice.

Amy Wallis

Amy Wallis graduated from the University of the West of England with a First Class Honours in Sport Therapy and Rehabilitation. She has a keen interest in musculoskeletal rehabilitation and biomechanics. She is hoping to continue her professional development through further education in the near future.

Shea Palmer

Shea Palmer is a physiotherapist currently employed at the University of the West of England Bristol as Professor of Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation. His main research interests are related to the assessment and management of musculoskeletal disorders, with a particular interest in joint hypermobility.