The Beighton Score is a clinical tool to assess Generalized Joint Hypermobility (GJH).
The Beighton Score has been used for many years as an indicator of joint hypermobility syndrome. It can quickly and easily assess generalized joint hypermobility using a 9-point scale. It is used solely as a clinical resource and screening tool. Joints included are the thumb, spine, elbow, knee, and the base of the pinky finger. If needed, a goniometer can also be used to measure a joint’s angle to determine its range of motion.
Take EDS Wellness’ Self-Scoring Generalized Hypermobility Questionnaire
In and of itself, the Beighton Score is NOT used for diagnosis, does NOT equate to a diagnosis, nor does it rule out the possibility of specific medical conditions, genetic disorders, or diseases. The Beighton Score is NOT a substitute for a more in-depth, thorough, and often necessary diagnostic workup or appropriate genetic testing. Please refer to the resources provided for additional pertinent and related information (links are below).
Read More About Assessing Joint Hypermobility
The Beighton Score for Generalized Joint Hypermobility:
– One point if while standing forward bending you can place palms on the ground with legs straight
– One point for each elbow that bends backward
– One point for each knee that bends backward
– One point for each thumb that touches the forearm when bent backward
– One point for each pinkie finger that can bend back at the joint more than 90 degrees
Beighton Score ___/9 points max
After calculating your total score, select one of 3 options listed below (if you cannot select one of these options, and if your Beighton Score is one point below the age and sex-specific cut-offs provided below, then move to the historical questions).
BEIGHTON SCORING FOR GJH CRITERIA
– Beighton Score of 4/9 or higher for adults 50 years old and over
– Beighton Score of 5/9 or higher for adults under 50
– Beighton Score of 6/9 or higher for children (pre-puberty
If you Beighton Score IS one point below the age and sex-specific cut-offs listed, an additional two or more historical questions must also be selected to meet the criterion for Generalized Joint Hypermobility (GJH).
Historical Questions:
– Can you now (or could you ever) place your hands flat on the floor without bending your knees?
– Can you now (or could you ever) bend your thumb to touch your forearm?
– As a child did you amuse your friends by bending your body into strange shapes OR could you do the splits?
– As a child or teenager did your shoulder or kneecap dislocate on more than one occasion?
– Do you consider yourself double-jointed?”
Adjusted Beighton Score ____/9 points Max
If your adjusted Beighton Score still does not meet your age/sex-specific cutoff, please refer to the resource links below.
Take EDS Wellness’ Self-Scoring Generalized Hypermobility Questionnaire
The Beighton Score for Generalized Joint Hypermobility
Understanding Your Beighton Score
Why Hypermobility Matters
Disclaimer
EDS Wellness is not your doctor or hospital, nor do we have healthcare providers in our employ. As stated above, in and of itself, the Beighton Score is NOT used for diagnosis, does NOT equate to a diagnosis, nor does it rule out the possibility of specific medical conditions, genetic disorders, or diseases. The Beighton Score is NOT a substitute for more in-depth, thorough & often necessary diagnostic workups or appropriate genetic testing. This Generalize Hypermobility Questionnaire and information contained on EDS Wellness’ Website, are not designed to, and should not be construed to as medical advice, professional diagnosis, opinion or treatment to you or any other individual, and is not intended as a substitute for medical or professional care and treatment. Always consult an appropriate healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and care, if appropriate, and before trying a new treatment, therapy, or anything else as it relates to your health & healthcare. EDS Wellness, its owner, board members & affiliates, assume no liability for issues or injuries that may result from viewing and/or personal participation in this Generalize Hypermobility Questionnaire. The participant/user assumes all risks.
Page Last Updated: June 2020
