Articular mobility in Maori and European New Zealanders

Abstract

Objectives. To determine the prevalence of hypermobility and of the hypermobility syndrome (HMS) in Maori and European New Zealanders. Methods. The prevalences of generalized hypermobility (Beighton's score ≥4), of hypermobility at individual sites and of HMS were determined in 804 Maori and European subjects. Musculoskeletal system (MSS) manifestations were documented in all subjects by personal interview and an MSS examination. Radiographs were obtained where appropriate. Results. The percentage of hypermobile subjects was 6.2 for Maori (9.0 for females and 2.2 for males) and 4.0 for Europeans (5.6 and 1.9). Hypermobility was more prevalent in females (P = 0.0001). Hypermobility of the elbow was more prevalent in Maori (P = 0.003) and hyperextension of the fifth finger and apposition of thumb to forearm were more prevalent in females (P < 0.001). HMS was present in two of 41 (4.9%, 95% confidence interval 0.6-17.6%) hypermobile subjects. Both were Maori females and therefore 2/23 hypermobile Maori females (8.7%, 1.1-31.4%) had HMS. Conclusion. The prevalence of hypermobility in Maori is similar to that in European New Zealanders and Caucasians elsewhere. Larger studies are necessary to determine the prevalence of HMS in Maori, particularly Maori females.