Generalized Joint Hypermobility and Its Association with Musculoskeletal Symptoms among healthcare workers in a Tertiary Care Centre – A Cross Sectional Study

This cross-sectional observational study aims to calculate the prevalence of Generalized joint hypermobility and its association with musculoskeletal symptoms in healthcare workers of a Tertiary Care Centre. The research question explores whether there is significant association between hypermobility and the presence of musculoskeletal symptoms, gait pattern,occupational factors and blood mineral and micronutrient concentration. Using PICOT framework, the study includes adults aged between 18-65 years working at the tertiary care centre, willing to undergo screening for the presence of generalized joint hypermobility. The primary objective is to calculate the prevalence of generalized joint hypermobility in the study population using an objective tool - Beighton Score. Secondary objectives includedetermining the relation between hypermobility and musculoskeletal pain- using Visual Analogue Scale, and gait pattern abnormality- using G Sensor gait analysis. Inclusion criteria include adults aged between 18-65 years, currently working at the tertiary care centre and able to provide informed consent. Exclusion criteria comprise previously diagnosed systemic rheumatic disorders or major hereditary connective tissue disorders, history of any fracture or significant trauma that hinders Beighton score analysis, history of recent infection or febrile illness within last 4 weeks, and pregnancy. The expected outcome is that the prevalence of generalized joint hypermobility (GJH) among the healthcare workers will be comparable to that of the general healthy adult population and individuals with hypermobility are anticipated to exhibit a higher frequency of musculoskeletal symptoms. The findings emphasize the value of regular musculoskeletal screening among healthcare workers to identify hypermobility-related vulnerabilities early and promote long-term occupational well-being and productivity.