Abstract
Background: Generalized Joint Laxity (GJL) is a significant risk factor for lower limb injury incidence and prevalence in sporting populations. However, the links with upper limb injury and injury severity in a wider population of people undertaking physical exercise have not been systematically reviewed to date. Objectives: The primary aim was to determine the links between GJL and the incidence, prevalence and severity of upper and lower limb injuries related to physical exercise. Secondary aims were to identify the quality of the existing research evidence and gaps within the literature that may warrant future research. Methods: Relevant literature was identified using online databases (SportDiscus, Medline, CINAHL and EMBASE OVID) and snowballing. Research papers with a primary aim of identifying a link between GJL and upper and lower limb injury incidence, prevalence and/or severity were included. The population of interest was those undertaking physical exercise, not limited to sport. Included papers were critically appraised and a narrative synthesis conducted. Results: A total of 274 studies were identified. Following application of the inclusion and exclusion criteria, nine papers were selected for critical appraisal that investigated the link between GJL and the incidence, prevalence and/or severity of limb injuries. The link between GJL and lower limb injury incidence and prevalence was supported across numerous types of physical exercise. However, the links between GJL and upper limb injury, and injury severity was inconclusive. Conclusions: GJL is associated with increased lower limb injury incidence and prevalence. Future research should investigate the links between GJL, upper limb injury and injury severity.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 259-272 |
| Number of pages | 14 |
| Journal | Physical Therapy Reviews |
| Volume | 23 |
| Issue number | 4-5 |
| Early online date | 2 Jul 2018 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 2018 |
| Externally published | Yes |
Bibliographical note
This is an Accepted Manuscript of an article published by Taylor & Francis in Physical Therapy Reviews on 02/07/2018, available online: http://www.tandfonline.com/10.1080/10833196.2018.1481626Copyright © and Moral Rights are retained by the author(s) and/ or other copyright owners. A copy can be downloaded for personal non-commercial research or study, without prior permission or charge. This item cannot be reproduced or quoted extensively from without first obtaining permission in writing from the copyright holder(s). The content must not be changed in any way or sold commercially in any format or medium without the formal permission of the copyright holders.
Keywords
- Exercise
- generalized Joint Laxity
- incidence
- injuries
- prevalence
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation
- Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
- Rehabilitation