Exploring the relationship between joint hypermobility and chronic pain in youth: Diagnostic challenges and the Beighton Scale

Hypermobility was a common finding in youth with chronic pain, highlighting the importance of assessing hypermobility during evaluations. However, this study raises concerns about the inconsistency in diagnosing and documenting hypermobility and variability in Beighton Scale scoring. These findings suggest a need for standardized diagnostic criteria and clinician training to improve diagnostic accuracy. Pain often extends beyond hypermobile joints, suggesting hypermobility may not fully explain chronic pain in this population. Providers should emphasize physical therapy and multidisciplinary treatment approaches in managing youth with chronic pain and hypermobility concerns.