THE QUANTIFICATION OF JOINT HYPERLAXITY IN ATHLETES

The range of joint movement has been quantified using hydrogoniometry at a wide selection of joints in an athletic population selected for j oint hyperlaxity. This included gymnasts competing at national and clu b level, divers and dancers, as well as non-specialized physical:educa tion students acting as controls. The sensitivity and reproducibility of methods proved satisfactory. The greater laxity of females and in y outh was confirmed and the influence of training recorded. A graded in crease in laxity from controls, through novice gymnasts, divers, dance rs to competitive gymnasts was observed in that order. A group of pati ents recruited because of their symptoms had an even higher degree of laxity recorded on a Carter and Wilkinson scale as measured by a posta l questionnaire.