The Beighton Score Calculator is a widely used tool in medical practice to assess the degree of joint hypermobility in individuals. Joint hypermobility refers to the ability of joints to move beyond the normal range of motion, which can be a sign of connective tissue disorders such as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome or benign joint hypermobility syndrome. The Beighton Score is a simple, quick, and non-invasive way to quantify this hypermobility.
The calculator evaluates flexibility in specific joints by assigning points based on the ability to perform certain movements. The total score can help healthcare providers determine whether a patient has hypermobility, which can inform further investigation or management strategies for related conditions.
Formula of Beighton Score Calculator
The Beighton Score is calculated using the following criteria:
Little Finger Hyperextension
- Score 1 point for each little finger that can bend backwards beyond 90 degrees.
- Maximum: 2 points (1 point per finger).
Thumb to Forearm
- Score 1 point for each thumb that can touch the forearm when bent backwards.
- Maximum: 2 points (1 point per thumb).
Elbow Hyperextension
- Score 1 point for each elbow that can hyperextend beyond 10 degrees.
- Maximum: 2 points (1 point per elbow).
Knee Hyperextension
- Score 1 point for each knee that can hyperextend beyond 10 degrees.
- Maximum: 2 points (1 point per knee).
Forward Flexion of the Trunk
- Score 1 point if you can place your palms flat on the floor while keeping your knees straight.
- Maximum: 1 point.
Total Score
- Total Beighton Score = Sum of all points (Maximum = 9 points).
Interpretation
- 0-3 points: Generally considered normal, indicating little to no hypermobility.
- 4-9 points: Indicates hypermobility, with higher scores showing greater flexibility.
Reference Table
Here’s a table summarizing the Beighton Score criteria and what each score represents:
| Test | Criteria | Points | Maximum Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Little Finger Hyperextension | Finger bends backwards beyond 90 degrees | 1 point per finger | 2 points |
| Thumb to Forearm | Thumb touches forearm when bent backwards | 1 point per thumb | 2 points |
| Elbow Hyperextension | Elbow hyperextends beyond 10 degrees | 1 point per elbow | 2 points |
| Knee Hyperextension | Knee hyperextends beyond 10 degrees | 1 point per knee | 2 points |
| Forward Flexion of the Trunk | Palms flat on the floor with straight knees | 1 point | 1 point |
| Total Score | Sum of all points | 0-9 points | 9 points |
Example of Beighton Score Calculator
Let’s consider an example to demonstrate how the Beighton Score Calculator works.
Suppose an individual undergoes the following tests:
- Little Finger Hyperextension: Both little fingers can bend backwards beyond 90 degrees (2 points).
- Thumb to Forearm: Only one thumb can touch the forearm when bent backwards (1 point).
- Elbow Hyperextension: Both elbows hyperextend beyond 10 degrees (2 points).
- Knee Hyperextension: Neither knee hyperextends beyond 10 degrees (0 points).
- Forward Flexion of the Trunk: The individual can place their palms flat on the floor while keeping their knees straight (1 point).
Total Beighton Score = 2 + 1 + 2 + 0 + 1 = 6 points
Interpretation
With a Beighton Score of 6, this individual would be considered to have joint hypermobility. This score suggests a higher-than-average flexibility, which may warrant further investigation, especially if the person has symptoms like joint pain or frequent dislocations.
Most Common FAQs
A Beighton Score of 4 or higher indicates joint hypermobility. The higher the score, the greater the flexibility, which could be a sign of an underlying connective tissue disorder. Scores between 0 and 3 are generally considered normal.
The Beighton Score is a screening tool and does not diagnose hypermobility disorders on its own. However, it can prompt further evaluation by a healthcare provider, especially if combined with symptoms like chronic pain or frequent joint injuries.
Not necessarily. Some people naturally have more flexible joints without any negative health consequences. However, if a high score is associated with symptoms like pain, frequent joint dislocations, or a family history of connective tissue disorders, it may require further medical assessment.