Fatigue is associated with muscle weakness in Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: an explorative study

Creatine Monohydrate as an Effective Supplement for Muscular Fatigue in an Ehlers-Danlos Patient

Patients with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) frequently report symptoms such as chronic pain and muscular fatigue that can heavily impact their quality of life. The treatment for many of the physical symptoms of EDS is focused on supportive care, which may include physical therapy and exercise programs. However, many patients will experience difficulty in deriving benefits from these activities due to significant pain and fatigue from physical activity. We report a case of a 39-year-old female with a history of EDS whose physical capabilities were severely impacted by their chronic pain and fatigue symptoms. After little progress was made with their current treatment plan of analgesics, manual therapy, exercise, and physical therapy, the patient was supplemented with creatine monohydrate due to its studied benefits in muscular strength and endurance for athletes. Following supplementation, the patient reported significant benefits in their muscular fatigue symptoms, allowing them to engage in daily activities and exercises more effectively. This case demonstrates a potential addition to the treatment of EDS that can improve a patient's quality of life.

The Effect of Joint Hypermobility Syndrome on DOMS and Recovery Time

Background

Previous research has reported that people with Joint Hypermobility Syndrome (JHS) and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) generally experience a high rate of muscular injury and pain. However, there is limited research comparing the recovery times and length of Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) in individuals with JHS to non-hypermobile individuals in response to exercise.

Hypotheses/Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate JHS and its effects on DOMS and its recovery time.

Study Design

Quasi-experimental, observational comparison.

Methods

Two groups including a hypermobile group (score >4 on Beighton Scale) and a non-hypermobile group all took part in five-second long standing eccentric bicep curls based using their one- repetition maximum (1-RM) of their dominant arm to failure in order to induce DOMS. Visual analog pain scale (VAS), McGill pain scale, resting arm angle, girth, and the pressure pain threshold, all domains of DOMS, were measured over a five-day period. Results were analyzed using ANOVA with time as the repeated factor.

Results

Both groups experienced DOMS following the eccentric exercise. However, VAS reporting was significantly greater in the hypermobile group compared to the non-hypermobile group and there was a significant difference over time. However, other variables did not reveal any other significant findings between groups.

Conclusion

Individuals with JHS may experience greater DOMS and require more time to recover between treatment sessions. Therapists need to be aware that patients with hypermobility may experience higher pain levels related to exercise, and they need to adjust treatment parameters appropriately.

Level of Evidence

2b.

Fatigue in patients with syndromic heritable thoracic aortic disease: a systematic review of the literature and a qualitative study of patients' experiences and perceptions

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study was to explore the literature on fatigue in patients with syndromic heritable thoracic aortic disease (sHTAD), including Marfan syndrome (MFS), Loeys-Dietz syndrome (LDS), vascular Ehlers Danlos syndrome (vEDS) and other sHTADs, critically appraise and synthesize the relevant literature. We also aimed to investigate how adults with sHTAD experience and perceive fatigue, and to discuss clinical implications and direction for further research.

METHODS

First, a systematic review was performed by searching the published literature in all relevant databases and other sources until 20th October 2022. Second, a qualitative focus group interview study was conducted of 36 adults with sHTADs (LDS n = 11, MFS n = 14, vEDS n = 11).

RESULTS

In the systematic review, 33 articles satisfied the eligibility criteria (3 reviews and 30 primary studies). Of the primary studies: 25 dealt with adults (MFS n = 17, MFS/EDS n = 1, EDS n = 2, LDS/vEDS n = 3, different sHTADs n = 2), 5 with children (MFS n = 4, different sHTADs n = 1). Twenty-two were cross-sectional quantitative studies, 4 prospective and 4 qualitative studies. The quality of the included studies was mostly good, but many had small sample sizes, low response rates and/or participants without verified diagnosis. Despite these limitations, studies indicated high prevalence of fatigue (ranging from 37 to 89%), and fatigue was associated with both health and psychosocial aspects. Few studies found that fatigue was associated with disease-related symptoms. In the qualitative focus groups most of the participants reported that they had experienced fatigue which influenced several aspects of life. Four themes related to fatigue were elucidated: (1) different diagnoses-different fatigue?, (2) the nature of fatigue, (3) searches for causes of fatigue, (4) dealing with fatigue in daily life. The four themes seemed mutually interrelated in terms of barriers, strategies and facilitators for dealing with fatigue. The participants experienced fatigue as a consistent dilemma between self-assertion and inadequacy. Fatigue seems to influence several aspects of daily life and may be one of the most debilitating symptoms of having a sHTAD.

CONCLUSION

Fatigue seems to negatively impact the lives of people with sHTADs and should be recognized as an important aspect in the lifelong follow-up of these patients. The life-threatening complications of sHTADs may result in emotional stress, including fatigue and the risk of developing a sedentary lifestyle. Research and clinical initiatives should consider rehabilitation interventions aiming at postponing the onset or reducing symptoms of fatigue.

Clinical-functional features of individuals with Osteogenesis Imperfecta and Ehlers-Danlos syndromes: A scoping review of assessment tools and ICF model

BACKGROUND

Clinical-functional assessment of patients affected by Osteogenesis Imperfecta and Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes is essential for clinical management. However, there is no clear information on disease-specific tools of assessment for clinical practice, thus limiting quantification and management of the diseases-related impairments.

OBJECTIVE

The present scoping review was aimed at investigating the most common clinical-functional features and assessment tools in individuals with Osteogenesis Imperfecta and Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes, and to provide an updated International Classification of Functioning (ICF) model related to functional impairments for each disease.

METHODS

The literature revision was conducted on PubMed, Scopus and Embase databases. Articles reporting an ICF model of clinical-functional features and assessment tools for Osteogenesis Imperfecta and Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes individuals were included.

RESULTS

A total of 27 articles were included, 7 reporting an ICF model, and 20 reporting clinical-functional assessment tools. It was reported that patients with Osteogenesis Imperfecta and Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes show impairments in both Body Function and Structure, and Activities and Participation domains of the ICF. A heterogeneous number of assessment tools was found for both diseases regarding proprioception, pain, endurance to exercise, fatigue, balance and motor coordination, and mobility.

CONCLUSION

Patients with Osteogenesis Imperfecta and Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes show several impairments and limitations in Body Function and Structure, and Activities and Participation domains of the ICF. Thus, an appropriate and ongoing assessment of the disease-related impairments is necessary to improve clinical practice. Several functional tests and clinical scales can be used to assess the patients despite the heterogeneity of assessment tools found in previous literature.

An exploratory study of clinical characteristics and gait features of adolescents with hypermobility disorders

BACKGROUND

In adolescents with non-pathological and pathological joint hypermobility, gait deviations have been associated with pain and fatigue. It remains unclear what distinguishes the non-pathological form of joint hypermobility (JH) from pathological forms (i.e. hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) or hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD). Our objective was to identify discriminative clinical characteristics and biomechanical gait features between adolescents with hEDS/HSD, JH, and healthy controls (HC).

METHODS

Thirty-two adolescents were classified into three subgroups (hEDS/HSD=12, JH=5, HC=15). Clinical characteristics (e.g. pain intensity and surface, fatigue, functional disability) were inventoried. The gait pattern was assessed using a three-dimensional, eight-camera VICON MX1.3 motion capture system, operating at a sample rate of 100 Hz (VICON, Oxford, UK). Spatiotemporal parameters, joint angles (sagittal plane), joint work, joint impulse, ground reaction force and gait variability expressed as percentage using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) were assessed and analysed using multivariate analysis. Multivariate analysis data is expressed in mean differences(MD), standard error(SE) and P-values.

RESULTS

The hEDS/HSD-group had significantly higher fatigue score (+51.5 points, p = <0.001) and functional disability (+1.6, p < .001) than the HC-group. Pain intensity was significantly higher in the hEDS/HSD-group than the other subgroups (JH; +37 mm p = .004, HC; +38 mm, p = .001). The hEDS/HSD-group showed significantly more gait variability (JH; +7.2(2.0)% p = .003, HC; + 7.8(1.4)%, p = <0.001) and lower joint work (JH; -0.07(0.03)J/kg, p = .007, HC; - 0.06(0.03)J/kg, p = .013) than the other subgroups. The JH-group showed significantly increased ankle dorsiflexion during terminal stance (+5.0(1.5)degree, p = .001) compared to hEDS/HSD-group and knee flexion during loading response compared to HC-group (+5.7(1.8) degree, p = .011).

SIGNIFICANCE

A distinctive difference in gait pattern between adolescents with non-pathological and pathological joint hypermobility is found in gait variability, rather than in the biomechanical features of gait. This suggests that a specific gait variability metric is more appropriate than biomechanical individual joint patterns for assessing gait in adolescents with hEDS/HSD.

Prolonged standing behaviour in people with joint hypermobility syndrome

Background

Joint Hypermobility Syndrome (JHS) is a rare Heritable Disorder of Connective tissue characterised by generalised joint laxity and chronic widespread pain. Joint Hypermobility Syndrome has a large impact on patients’ day to day activities, and many complain of symptoms when standing for prolonged periods. This study investigates whether people with JHS exhibit the same behaviours to deal with the effects of prolonged standing as people with equal hypermobility and no pain, and people with normal flexibility and no pain.

Methods

Twenty three people with JHS, 22 people with Generalised Joint Hypermobility (GJH), and 22 people with normal flexibility (NF) were asked to stand for a maximum of 15 min across two force-plates. Fidgets were counted and quantified using a cumulative sum algorithm and sway parameters of the quiet standing periods between fidgets were calculated.

Results

Average standing time for participants with JHS was 7.35 min and none stood for the full 15 min. All participants with GJH and NF completed 15 min of standing. There were no differences in fidgeting behaviour between any groups. There was a difference in anteroposterior sway (p = .029) during the quiet standing periods.

Conclusion

There is no evidence to suggest people with JHS exhibit different fidgeting behaviour. Increased anteroposterior-sway may suggest a muscle weakness and strengthening muscles around the ankle may reduce postural sway and potentially improve the ability to stand for prolonged periods.

Outcome measures for assessing change over time in studies of symptomatic children with hypermobility: a systematic review

Background

Generalised joint hypermobility (GJH) is highly prevalent among children and associated with symptoms in a fifth with the condition. This study aimed to synthesise outcome measures in interventional or prospective longitudinal studies of children with GJH and associated lower limb symptoms.

Methods

Electronic searches of Medline, CINAHL and Embase databases from inception to 16th March 2020 were performed for studies of children with GJH and symptoms between 5 and 18 years reporting repeated outcome measures collected at least 4 weeks apart. Methodological quality of eligible studies were described using the Downs and Black checklist.

Results

Six studies comprising of five interventional, and one prospective observational study (total of 388 children) met the inclusion criteria. Interventional study durations were between 2 and 3 months, with up to 10 months post-intervention follow-up, while the observational study spanned 3 years. Three main constructs of pain, function and quality of life were reported as primary outcome measures using 20 different instruments. All but one measure was validated in paediatric populations, but not specifically for children with GJH and symptoms. One study assessed fatigue, reporting disabling fatigue to be associated with higher pain intensity.

Conclusions

There were no agreed sets of outcome measures used for children with GJH and symptoms. The standardisation of assessment tools across paediatric clinical trials is needed. Four constructs of pain, function, quality of life and fatigue are recommended to be included with agreed upon, validated, objective tools.

Dissecting the fatigue experience: A scoping review of fatigue definitions, dimensions, and measures in non-oncologic medical conditions

Introduction

Fatigue is a prevalent and potentially debilitating symptom that impacts the health-related quality-of-life of individuals diagnosed with acute and chronic medical conditions. Yet, its etiologic mechanism is not fully understood. Additionally, the assessment and determination of the clinical meaning of fatigue and its multidimensionality may vary by medical condition.

Methods

A scoping literature review was conducted to investigate how fatigue is defined and measured, including its dimensions, in non-oncologic medical conditions. The PubMed database was searched using keywords.

Results

Overall, 8376 articles were screened at the title/abstract levels, where 293 articles were chosen for full-text review that mentioned fatigue or included fatigue measures. The review of the full text excluded 246 articles that did not assess at least one fatigue dimension using validated questionnaires and clinical tests. The final set included 47 articles. Physical fatigue was the most assessed fatigue dimension and the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory was the most widely used questionnaire to assess fatigue in this review.

Limitations

This review was limited by including only English-language publications and using PubMed as the sole database for the search.

Conclusions

This review affirms that fatigue is a multidimensional construct, agnostic of medical condition, and that individual fatigue dimensions can be measured by validated clinical measures. Future research should focus on expanding the repertoire of clinical measures to assess specific fatigue dimensions.

•

The 27 different validated clinical measures used to assess fatigue and its dimensions; 20 instruments assessed the physical, 8 for mental, 7 cognitive, 5 for motivational, 2 for emotional, 1 peripheral, 1 for central, 1 psychosocial.

•

Physical was the most measured dimension, as assessed in 42 of 47 included articles.

•

This review affirms that fatigue is a multidimensional construct, agnostic of medical condition, and that individual fatigue dimensions can be measured by validate clinical measures.

Physical therapy treatment of hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: A systematic review

Physiotherapy techniques are regularly prescribed in the hypermobile type Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) and they are appreciated by the patients. The objective of this systematic review was to investigate the effect of the different physiotherapy techniques related to the children and adult patients with hEDS. PubMed, SPORTDiscus, Cochrane Library, PEDro, Scopus, and Embase databases were analyzed from inception to April 2020. Characteristics of the studies (authors), patients (sample size, sex, age, Beighton score), and nonpharmacological treatment (length of the program, number of session, duration of the session, and type of intervention), and the results with the dropout rate were extracted. From the 1045 retrieved references, 6 randomized controlled trial with a sample size ranging from 20 to 57 patients were included in the systematic review. There was a huge heterogeneity in the interventions. The durations of the program were from 4 to 8 weeks. Pain or proprioception demonstrated significant improvements in the intervention group regardless of the type of intervention. A benefit of the inspiratory muscle training was observed on functional exercise capacity. The quality of life was systematically improved. Physiotherapy benefits on proprioception and pain in patients with hEDS even if robust randomized control studies are missing.

Subtle differences in autonomic symptoms in people diagnosed with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and hypermobility spectrum disorders

The hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) GENE study is a multicenter, cohort study with the goal to identify genes associated with hypermobile EDS. Of the 148 people enrolled in the hEDS GENE study, 98 meet the 2017 hEDS criteria, 27 have a hypermobility spectrum disorder (HSD) and 23 are asymptomatic family members. More than 80% of participants are female with an average age of 41 years. Each participant has completed seven questionnaires to quantify disease-related symptomatology. People with hypermobility experience a variety of physical and somatic symptoms, especially in the areas of fatigue, kinesiophobia, gastrointestinal, and autonomic function. These cause a significant decrease in health-related quality of life. The frequency and severity of most symptoms were indistinguishable between participants with hEDS and HSD; however, there were significant differences in autonomic symptoms. Less than 20% of participants had autoantibodies known to be associated with dysautonomia. Subtle symptomatic differences in people meeting the 2017 diagnostic criteria suggest focusing further etiologic studies on autonomic pathways.

Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndromes: Complex phenotypes, challenging diagnoses, and poorly understood causes

The Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) are a group of heritable, connective tissue disorders characterized by joint hypermobility, skin hyperextensibility, and tissue fragility. There is phenotypic and genetic variation among the 13 subtypes. The initial genetic findings on EDS were related to alterations in fibrillar collagen, but the elucidation of the molecular basis of many of the subtypes revealed several genes not involved in collagen biosynthesis or structure. However, the genetic basis of the hypermobile type of EDS (hEDS) is still unknown. hEDS is the most common type of EDS and involves generalized joint hypermobility, musculoskeletal manifestations, and mild skin involvement along with the presence of several comorbid conditions. Variability in the spectrum and severity of symptoms and progression of patient phenotype likely depend on age, gender, lifestyle, and expression domains of the EDS genes during development and postnatal life. In this review, we summarize the current molecular, genetic, epidemiologic, and pathogenetic findings related to EDS with a focus on the hypermobile type.

Psychosocial and Motor Characteristics of Patients With Hypermobility

OBJECTIVES

To identify psychosocial and motor aspects related to joint hypermobility (JH) in a sample from almost all Brazilian states by age range and sex; to characterize JH by the Beighton total score ≥4, ≥5, and ≥6 according to sex and age and atypicality in the sitting position and in the hands; identify, in the total sample, manifestations of "growing pain" and its location, fatigue, attention deficit, anxiety, insomnia, drowsiness, apathy, depression, delay in walking, not crawling or crawling differently, school performance, spatial orientation and/or temporally impaired, social isolation, and being stigmatized as "lazy/clumsy/apathetic".

METHODS

This retrospective, observational, quantitative, and cross-sectional study used data obtained through analyses of descriptive and inferential crossings between 2012 and 2020 of 482 medical records of individuals between 1 and 76 years of age, from most Brazilian states. All patients previously diagnosed with "joint hypermobility syndrome" (JHS) and "Ehlers-Danlos syndrome hypermobility type" (EDS-HT) had their medical records reassessed, following the guidelines established in 2017. The analysis of GJH was performed using the updated method by Beighton method; atypical characteristics were investigated in the hands and the ability to sit in the "W" and the "concave" positions. The characteristics and manifestations of "growing pain" and its location were analyzed in the total sample, fatigue, insomnia, drowsiness, apathy, depression, social isolation, attention deficit, anxiety, stigmatization as "lazy," clumsy/restless, impaired school performance, and spatial and/or temporal orientation. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used, such as Mean, Median, Mode, Standard Deviation, Standard Error, Maximum Value, Minimum Value, Komolgorov-Smirnov, Significance, Relative Value, Absolute Value, Mann-Whitney U, and Correlation of Spearman.

RESULTS

JH in the total sample predominated in the upper limbs, the majority were women, represented by 352 (73.02%), 15 years old or older with 322 (66.80%), 312 (64.73%) had a Beighton total score ≥6, which decreased as the age increased. Always sitting in the "concave" position was represented by 54.15% and the ability to sit in the "W" position by 39.21%; signs on the hands totaled between 27.59 and 44.19% with a significant correlation between the variables. Among the characteristics, fatigue predominated, followed by an awkward/clumsy/restless individual, attention deficit, anxiety and stigmatized as "lazy," insomnia, drowsiness, apathy, depression, impaired spatial and/or temporal orientation, and social isolation. From the total sample, pain in the lower limbs was reported by 55.81% and having or having had "growing pain" was reported by 36.93%, delay in walking occurred in 19.92%, 15.35% did not crawl or crawled differently, and for 12.86%, school performance was impaired. Higher Beighton total scores showed a trend towards motor implications and correlation between variables. Ability to still sit in the "concave" position was possible for 54.15% and to sit in the "W" position for 39.21%.

CONCLUSION

In the total sample, the JH characteristic prevails in the upper limbs of female children, adolescents and adults, with a total Beighton score ≥6. Most sit in the "concave" position and less than half also sit in the "W" position and with atypical hand postures. The higher Beighton scores, which include the upper limbs, show a tendency to not crawl or crawl differently, delayed ambulation, and impaired school performance. The predominance of JH in the upper limbs is suggestive of a justification for not crawling or crawling differently. Characteristics of atypical motor performance in hands and sitting posture, in addition to fatigue, pain since childhood, anxiety, apathy, depression, sleep disorders, stigmatization, attention deficit, spatial and/or temporal orientation impairment, and social isolation are characteristics. suggestive of psychosocial implications at different ages. Future studies with motor and psychosocial aspects of people with JH will help to identify the phenotype of this population and consequent guidance for clinical management based on the motor and psychosocial aspects of people with JH.

Surgical Management of Shoulder and Knee Instability in Patients with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: Joint Hypermobility Syndrome

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a hereditary disorder of the connective tissue, which has been classified into numerous subtypes over the years. EDS is generally characterized by hyperextensible skin, hypermobile joints, and tissue fragility. According to the 2017 International Classification of EDS, 13 subtypes of EDS have been recognized. The majority of genes involved in EDS are either collagen-encoding genes or genes encoding collagen-modifying enzymes. Orthopedic surgeons most commonly encounter patients with the hypermobile type EDS (hEDS), who present with signs and symptoms of hypermobility and/or instability in one or more joints. Patients with joint hypermobility syndrome (JHS) might also present with similar symptomatology. This article will focus on the surgical management of patients with knee or shoulder abnormalities related to hEDS/JHS.

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Hypermobility Syndrome Compared with Other Common Chronic Pain Diagnoses-A Study from the Swedish Quality Registry for Pain Rehabilitation

Although chronic pain is common in patients with Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (EDS) and hypermobility syndromes (HMS), little is known about the clinical characteristics of these groups. The main aim was to compare EDS/HMS with common local and generalized pain conditions with respect to Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs). Data from the Swedish Quality Register for Chronic Pain (SQRP) from 2007 to 2016 (n = 40,518) were used, including patients with EDS/HMS (n = 795), fibromyalgia (n = 5791), spinal pain (n = 6693), and whiplash associated disorders (WAD) (n = 1229). No important differences in the PROMs were found between EDS and HMS. Women were represented in > 90% of EDS/HMS cases and fibromyalgia cases, and in about 64% of the other groups. The EDS/HMS group was significantly younger than the others but had a longer pain duration. The pain intensity in EDS/HMS was like those found in spinal pain and WAD; fibromyalgia had the highest pain intensity. Depressive and anxiety symptoms were very similar in the four groups. Vitality—a proxy for fatigue—was low both in EDS/HMS and fibromyalgia. The physical health was lower in EDS/HMS and fibromyalgia than in the two other groups. Patients with EDS/HMS were younger, more often female, and suffered from pain for the longest time compared with patients who had localized/regional pain conditions. Health-care clinicians must be aware of these issues related to EDS/HMS both when assessing the clinical presentations and planning treatment and rehabilitation interventions.

Podiatry alterations in Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

This paper aims to describe the type of foot and most frequent podiatric alterations, as well as the level of pain, disability, fatigue and alteration of quality of life in patients with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-eight individuals with hypermobile or classic EDS participated. The percentage of pain in the foot and deformities was recorded, and several questionnaires were administered. The type of foot was classified according to the footprint and the Foot Posture Index.

RESULTS

There was a high degree of pain, disability, intensity of fatigue and low quality of life in these patients. According to the footprint, 20% presented flat feet, 47% normal feet and 33% cavus feet.

CONCLUSIONS

The participants in this study had a high percentage of foot problems related to high levels of pain and limited functionality in the feet. The quality of life of these patients appeared diminished. Foot types were observed according to the footprint and deformities similar to those of the general population.

Joint Hypermobility as a Predictor of Mechanical Loading in Dancers

CONTEXT

Dance requires the performance of complex movements that may exceed normal anatomical range. However, in hypermobile individuals, this may have implications for injury and performance.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to investigate the efficacy of the Beighton score (BS) in predicting mechanical loading in dancers in hypermobile and nonhypermobile dancers with consideration of accelerometer placement and lumbar flexion hypermobility.

DESIGN

Cohort study, clinical measurement.

SETTING

University.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 34 dancers had their joint hypermobility assessed by the BS. Participants completed the Dance Aerobic Fitness Test with a global positioning device incorporating a triaxial accelerometer located at the cervico-thoracic junction (C7) and one at the midbelly of the gastrocnemius.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Accelerometry data were used to calculate PlayerLoad total, PlayerLoad medial-lateral, PlayerLoad anterior-posterior, and PlayerLoad vertical. Physiological response was measured via heart rate and fatigue response by rate of perceived exertion.

RESULTS

The total BS was a poor predictor of all mechanical loading directions with PlayerLoad anterior-posterior C7 (r = .15) and PlayerLoad total lower limb (r = .20) the highest values. Multiple linear regression was a better predictor with values of C7 (r = .43) and lower limb (r = .37). No significant difference existed between hypermobile and nonhypermobile subjects for mechanical loading values for all stages of the Dance Aerobic Fitness Test and for heart rate and fatigue responses.

CONCLUSIONS

The BS is not a good predictor of mechanical loading which is similar in hypermobile and nonhypermobile dancers for all levels of the Dance Aerobic Fitness Test. Mechanical loading and fatigue responses are similar between hypermobile and nonhypermobile dancers.

Recognizing and Effectively Managing Hypermobility-Related Conditions

Hypermobility spectrum disorder (HSD) and hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) can cause widespread or chronic pain, fatigue, and proprioceptive and coordination deficits resulting in functional restrictions. These conditions are common and often unrecognized, and patients are likely to present in physical therapy for musculoskeletal injuries, pain, or coordination deficits. Although physical therapy is considered central to managing these conditions, many patients report pain and iatrogenic injuries due to inappropriate interventions. The diagnostic classification for these conditions was revised in 2017 to supersede previous diagnostic categories of Joint Hypermobility Syndrome and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome-hypermobility type/type III. It is now known that these conditions affect multiple body systems and not just joints and that patients require a holistic approach. This Perspective article will describe the 2017 diagnostic classification system, clinical presentation, examination, evaluation, and management of patients with HSD/hEDS. Both adult and pediatric cases are presented to illustrate the patient management concepts discussed. This knowledge can lead to more effective management of this patient population.

Central fatigue is greater than peripheral fatigue in people with joint hypermobility syndrome

PURPOSE

People with Joint Hypermobility Syndrome (JHS) suffer with fatigue. The purpose of this project was to investigate the contribution of central and peripheral fatigue.

METHODS

Electrical stimulation of the musculocutaneous nerve to biceps brachii, and transcranial magnetic stimulation over the motor cortex supplying biceps brachii were used. Peripheral and central fatigue were assessed during a control, fatiguing and recovery phase protocol.

RESULTS

JHS participants perceived greater fatigue during the protocol compared to a control group and did not recover. Central and peripheral fatigue did not occur in the control group. However, the JHS group showed central fatigue. MEP amplitude increased in the JHS group during the fatiguing protocol (p < 0.01) before recovering. Superimposed twitch amplitude increased in the JHS group during the fatiguing protocol and stayed elevated during the recovery phase (p < 0.04). Time to peak (TTP) amplitude of the torque generated by the TMS was longer in the JHS group (p < 0.05). RMS during MVCs decreased during the fatiguing protocol reaching significance during the recovery phase (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

JHS participants suffered central but not peripheral fatigue. A modified strength programme to target this is discussed.

Inspiratory muscle strength training improves lung function in patients with the hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: A randomized controlled trial

As exertional inspiratory dyspnea is a common disabling complaint in hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) often also known as joint hypermobility syndrome (JHS), we investigated inspiratory muscle (IM) strength in patients with hEDS, and we assessed the effects of IM training (IMT) on IM strength, lung function, and exercise capacity. A prospective evaluation of IM strength followed by a randomized controlled trial of IMT was performed in women with hEDS. Sniff nasal inspiratory pressure (SNIP) was used to routinely measure IM strength and IMT was carried out using a pressure threshold device. IM strength (main outcome), cardiopulmonary function, exercise capacity, and emotional distress of both the treated and control groups were evaluated at the start and at the end of the 6-week training period. IM strength was reduced (<80% of predicted) in 77% of patients (80/104). Lung function was normal, although 24% of patients had a higher forced expiratory vital capacity (FVC) than normal and 12% of patients had a higher total lung capacity (TLC) than normal. Both the IMT and control groups (n = 20) had similar baseline characteristics. Significant changes were noted only in the IMT group after IMT. At the end of the program, IMT improved SNIP (20%) (before: 41 ± 17 cm H₂ O [28, 53] vs. after: 49 ± 18 cm H₂ O [34;65]), six-minute walking distance (6MWD) (60 m) (455 ± 107 m [379,532] vs. 515 ± 127 m [408, 621]), and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) (285 mL) (94 ± 14% pred [84,104] vs. 103 ± 11% pred [94, 112]). IM strength is significantly reduced in patients with hEDS. IMT improved IM strength, lung function, and exercise capacity. Our findings suggest that IMT should be added to usual care.

Pain and sleep quality in children with non-vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndromes

The objective of this study was to explore the factors contributing to quality of life in pediatric patients with non-vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS). Data were analyzed on 41 children with a diagnosis of non-vascular EDS from the de-identified data available from the National Institute on Aging (NIA) study of heritable disorders of connective tissue. Children under age 19 years were seen as part of a long-term evaluation project from 2003 to 2013 on a larger natural history of patients with heritable disorders of connective tissue. Data collected included medical history, physical examination findings, diagnostic study results, and responses on validated questionnaires. We reviewed a sub-cohort of children with a diagnosis of non-vascular EDS and explored pain severity and interference via the Brief Pain Inventory, and sleep quality via the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Pain severity had a strong correlation with pain interference, and both were similar to other disorders that include chronic pain reported in the literature. Sleep quality did not correlate with pain severity or interference, but all patients had poor sleep quality in comparison to historical controls. We conclude that pain and sleep are significant issues in the pediatric non-vascular EDS population, and future research may be directed toward these issues.

Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (a.k.a. Ehlers-Danlos syndrome Type III and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome hypermobility type): Clinical description and natural history

The hypermobile type of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) is likely the most common hereditary disorder of connective tissue. It has been described largely in those with musculoskeletal complaints including joint hypermobility, joint subluxations/dislocations, as well as skin and soft tissue manifestations. Many patients report activity-related pain and some go on to have daily pain. Two undifferentiated syndromes have been used to describe these manifestations-joint hypermobility syndrome and hEDS. Both are clinical diagnoses in the absence of other causation. Current medical literature further complicates differentiation and describes multiple associated symptoms and disorders. The current EDS nosology combines these two entities into the hypermobile type of EDS. Herein, we review and summarize the literature as a better clinical description of this type of connective tissue disorder. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The association between muscle strength and activity limitations in patients with the hypermobility type of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: the impact of proprioception

PURPOSE

The patients diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Hypermobility Type (EDS-HT) are characterized by pain, proprioceptive inacuity, muscle weakness, potentially leading to activity limitations. In EDS-HT, a direct relationship between muscle strength, proprioception and activity limitations has never been studied. The objective of the study was to establish the association between muscle strength and activity limitations and the impact of proprioception on this association in EDS-HT patients.

METHODS

Twenty-four EDS-HT patients were compared with 24 controls. Activity limitations were quantified by Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), Six-Minute Walk test (6MWT) and 30-s chair-rise test (30CRT). Muscle strength was quantified by handheld dynamometry. Proprioception was quantified by movement detection paradigm. In analyses, the association between muscle strength and activity limitations was controlled for proprioception and confounders.

RESULTS

Muscle strength was associated with 30CRT (r = 0.67, p = <0.001), 6MWT (r = 0.58, p = <0.001) and HAQ (r = 0.63, p= <0.001). Proprioception was associated with 30CRT (r = 0.55, p < 0.001), 6MWT (r = 0.40, p = <0.05) and HAQ (r = 0.46, p < 0.05). Muscle strength was found to be associated with activity limitations, however, proprioceptive inacuity confounded this association.

CONCLUSIONS

Muscle strength is associated with activity limitations in EDS-HT patients. Joint proprioception is of influence on this association and should be considered in the development of new treatment strategies for patients with EDS-HT. Implications for rehabilitation Reducing activity limitations by enhancing muscle strength is frequently applied in the treatment of EDS-HT patients. Although evidence regarding treatment efficacy is scarce, the current paper confirms the rationality that muscle strength is an important factor in the occurrence of activity limitations in EDS-HT patients. Although muscle strength is the most dominant factor that is associated with activity limitations, this association is confounded by proprioception. In contrast to common belief proprioception was not directly associated with activity limitations but confounded this association. Controlling muscle strength on the bases of proprioceptive input may be more important for reducing activity limitations than just enhancing sheer muscle strength.

Joint hypermobility syndrome: a review for clinicians

The term 'joint hypermobility' describes synovial joints that move beyond a normal range of motion. 'Joint hypermobilty syndrome' may also be associated with significant symptoms and impaired quality of life. The purpose of this review is to help the generalist to recognise the condition, exclude significant alternative diagnoses and understand the multidisciplinary approach to management.

Tendon protein synthesis rate in classic Ehlers-Danlos patients can be stimulated with insulin-like growth factor-I

The classic form of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (cEDS) is an inherited connective tissue disorder, where mutations in type V collagen-encoding genes result in abnormal collagen fibrils. Thus the cEDS patients have pathological connective tissue morphology and low stiffness, but the rate of connective tissue protein turnover is unknown. We investigated whether cEDS affected the protein synthesis rate in skin and tendon, and whether this could be stimulated in tendon tissue with insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I). Five patients with cEDS and 10 healthy, matched controls (CTRL) were included. One patellar tendon of each participant was injected with 0.1 ml IGF-I (Increlex, Ipsen, 10 mg/ml) and the contralateral tendon with 0.1 ml isotonic saline as control. The injections were performed at both 24 and 6 h prior to tissue sampling. The fractional synthesis rate (FSR) of proteins in skin and tendon was measured with the stable isotope technique using a flood-primed continuous infusion over 6 h. After the infusion one skin biopsy and two tendon biopsies (one from each patellar tendon) were obtained. We found similar baseline FSR values in skin and tendon in the cEDS patients and controls [skin: 0.005 ± 0.002 (cEDS) and 0.007 ± 0.002 (CTRL); tendon: 0.008 ± 0.001 (cEDS) and 0.009 ± 0.002 (CTRL) %/h, mean ± SE]. IGF-I injections significantly increased FSR values in cEDS patients but not in controls (delta values: cEDS 0.007 ± 0.002, CTRL 0.001 ± 0.001%/h). In conclusion, baseline protein synthesis rates in connective tissue appeared normal in cEDS patients, and the patients responded with an increased tendon protein synthesis rate to IGF-I injections.

The functional consequences of generalized joint hypermobility: a cross-sectional study

Background

Generalized Joint Hypermobility (GJH) has been found to be associated with musculoskeletal complaints and disability. For others GJH is seen as a prerequisite in order to excel in certain sports like dance. However, it remains unclear what the role is of GJH in human performance. Therefore, the purpose of the study was to establish the association between GJH and functional status and to explore the contribution of physical fitness and musculoskeletal complaints to this association.

Methods

A total of 72 female participants (mean age (SD; range): 19.6 (2.2; 17-24)) were recruited among students from the Amsterdam School of Health Professions (ASHP) (n = 36) and the Amsterdam School of Arts (ASA), Academy for dance and theater (n = 36) in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. From each participant the following data was collected: Functional status performance (self-reported Physical activity level) and capacity (walking distance and jumping capacity: side hop (SH) and square hop (SQH)), presence of GJH (Beighton score ≥4), muscle strength, musculoskeletal complaints (pain and fatigue) and demographic characteristics (age and BMI).

Results

GJH was negatively associated with all capacity measures of functional status. Subjects with GJH had a reduced walking distance (B(SE):-75.5(10.5), p = <.0001) and jumping capacity (SH: B(SE):-10.10(5.0), p = .048, and SQH: B(SE):-11.2(5.1), p = .024) in comparison to subjects without GJH, when controlling for confounding: age, BMI and musculoskeletal complaints. In participants with GJH, functional status was not associated with performance measures.

Conclusion

GJH was independently associated with lower walking and jumping capacity, potentially due to the compromised structural integrity of connective tissue. However, pain, fatigue and muscle strength were also important contributors to functional status.

Evaluation of kinesiophobia and its correlations with pain and fatigue in joint hypermobility syndrome/Ehlers-Danlos syndrome hypermobility type

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome hypermobility type a. k. a. joint hypermobility syndrome (JHS/EDS-HT) is a hereditary musculoskeletal disorder associating generalized joint hypermobility with chronic pain. Anecdotal reports suggest a prominent role for kinesiophobia in disease manifestations, but no study has systematically addressed this point. Objective. To investigate the impact of kinesiophobia and its relationship with pain, fatigue, and quality of life in JHS/EDS-HT. Design. Cross-sectional study. Subjects/Patients. 42 patients (40 female and 2 male) with JHS/EDS-HT diagnosis following standardized diagnostic criteria were selected. Methods. Disease features were analyzed by means of specific questionnaires and scales evaluating kinesiophobia, pain, fatigue, and quality of life. The relationships among variables were investigated using the Spearman bivariate analysis. Results. Kinesiophobia resulted predominantly in the patients' sample. The values of kinesiophobia did not correlate with intensity of pain, quality of life, and (or) the single component of fatigue. A strong correlation was discovered between kinesiophobia and general severity of fatigue. Conclusions. In JHS/EDS-HT, the onset of pain-avoiding strategies is related to the presence of pain but not to its intensity. The clear-cut correlation between kinesiophobia and severity of fatigue suggests a direct link between musculoskeletal pain and fatigue. In JHS/EDS-HT, the underlying mechanism is likely to be facilitated by primary disease characteristics, including hypotonia.

Ehlers-danlos syndrome, hypermobility type: an underdiagnosed hereditary connective tissue disorder with mucocutaneous, articular, and systemic manifestations

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, hypermobility type, constituting a phenotypic continuum with or, perhaps, corresponding to the joint hypermobility syndrome (JHS/EDS-HT), is likely the most common, though the least recognized, heritable connective tissue disorder. Known for decades as a hereditary condition with predominant rheumatologic manifestations, it is now emerging as a multisystemic disorder with widespread manifestations. Nevertheless, the practitioners' awareness of this condition is generally poor and most patients await years or, perhaps, decades before reaching the correct diagnosis. Among the various sites of disease manifestations, skin and mucosae represent a neglected organ where the dermatologist can easily spot diagnostic clues, which consistently integrate joint hypermobility and other orthopedic/neurologic manifestations at physical examination. In this paper, actual knowledge on JHS/EDS-HT is summarized in various sections. Particular attention has been posed on overlooked manifestations, including cutaneous, mucosal, and oropharyngeal features, and early diagnosis techniques, as a major point of interest for the practicing dermatologist. Actual research progresses on JH/EDS-HT envisage an unexpected link between heritable dysfunctions of the connective tissue and a wide range of functional somatic syndromes, most of them commonly diagnosed in the office of various specialists, comprising dermatologists.

Relationship between fatigue and gait abnormality in joint hypermobility syndrome/Ehlers-Danlos syndrome hypermobility type

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous group of inherited connective tissue disorders characterised by joint hypermobility, skin hyperextensibility and tissue fragility. It has recently been shown that muscle weakness occurs frequently in EDS, and that fatigue is a common and clinically important symptom. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between fatigue severity and the gait pattern using 3D Gait Analysis (GA). Eleven individuals with Joint Hypermobility Syndrome/Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Hypermobility type (JHS/EDS-HT) were investigated using muscle strength measured with standardised questionnaire measuring fatigue (Fatigue Severity Scale, FSS) and quantitative 3D GA. Our data showed that FSS value well correlated with the peak of vertical component of ground reaction force (r=-0.66, p<0.05). The negative correlation gives evidence that the higher the fatigue is the more reduced force is during gait. Our results showed that the ground reaction force has been applied as a functional evaluation score for detecting pathology in gait of JHS/EDS-HT participants and the found correlation between vertical force and fatigue demonstrated that muscle fatigue may be associated with a loss of proprioceptive acuity in lower limb muscles.

Management of pain and fatigue in the joint hypermobility syndrome (a.k.a. Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, hypermobility type): principles and proposal for a multidisciplinary approach

Joint hypermobility syndrome (JHS), or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) hypermobility type (EDS-HT), is a underdiagnosed heritable connective tissue disorder characterized by generalized joint hypermobility and a wide range of visceral, pelvic, neurologic, and cognitive dysfunctions. Deterioration of quality of life is mainly associated with pain and fatigue. Except for the recognized effectiveness of physiotherapy for some musculoskeletal features, there are no standardized guidelines for the assessment and treatment of pain and fatigue. In this work, a practical classification of pain presentations and factors contributing in generating painful sensations in JHS/EDS-HT is proposed. Pain can be topographically classified in articular limb (acute/subacute and chronic), muscular limb (myofascial and fibromyalgia), neuropathic limb, back/neck, abdominal and pelvic pain, and headache. For selected forms of pain, specific predisposing characteristics are outlined. Fatigue appears as the result of multiple factors, including muscle weakness, respiratory insufficiency, unrefreshing sleep, dysautonomia, intestinal malabsorption, reactive depression/anxiety, and excessive use of analgesics. A set of lifestyle recommendations to instruct patients as well as specific investigations aimed at characterizing pain and fatigue are identified. Available treatment options are discussed in the set of a structured multidisciplinary approach based on reliable outcome tools.

Fatigue, muscle strength and vitamin D status in women with systemic lupus erythematosus compared with healthy controls

Recent studies have demonstrated an inverse relationship between vitamin D levels and fatigue in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The aims of this study were to evaluate proximal muscle strength, fatigue and vitamin D levels in women with SLE compared with healthy controls and to investigate relationships between these factors in a cohort of women with SLE. Forty-five women (24 SLE, 21 healthy controls) participated. Primary outcome measures were the fatigue severity scale (FSS), isometric muscle strength of dominant limbs using hand held dynamometry, two functional tests – the 30-second chair stand test and the 1-kg arm lift test, with vitamin D status measured using 25(OH)D. Overall 25(OH)D levels were 68.4 (22.4) nmol/L with no difference between SLE and control groups. There was a statistically and clinically significant difference in fatigue, 1-kg arm lift, 30-second sit to stand, knee extension, hip flexion, hip abduction, shoulder flexion and grip strength in the SLE group compared with the control group ( p < 0.05). In the SLE group FSS was moderately correlated with both functional measures (1-kg arm lift r = −0.42, 30-second chair stand r = −0.44, p < 0.05). However, no statistically significant correlation between dynamometry measures and fatigue was evident. There was no association between fatigue and 25(OH)D level ( r = −0.12). In summary, women with SLE were weaker and demonstrated reduced physical function and higher fatigue levels than healthy controls. Fatigue was related to physical function but not vitamin D status or maximal isometric strength in vitamin D replete individuals with SLE.