Joint hypermobility is a condition in which range of motion at the joints is greater than normal and is commonly referred to as being “double-jointed.” Joint hypermobility is a lifelong condition that is common in youth and declines with age (joints tend to stiffen with age). As many as 25% of adults may have joint hypermobility, it is more common in women than men and may increase the risk for osteoarthritis (OA).
In the United States, the number of people diagnosed with OA is rapidly increasing each year, resulting in rising health care costs and more people experiencing disability.
We will be conducting the largest study to date of over 7,000 people from three large studies of participants with and without OA: the Johnston County Osteoarthritis Project, Genetics of Generalized Osteoarthritis study, and Genetics of Osteoarthritis study. This study will help us understand the role of joint hypermobility in lower body OA. Results of this study will lead to interventions, like shoes, bracing, or specialized exercises, that may promote good joint function to help prevent or treat OA.
“It is uncommon to get the award on the first try, and I feel very fortunate.”