Reliability of the Beighton Hypermobility Index to determinate the general joint laxity performed by dentists

Abstract

The findings in the literature concerning an association between general joint laxity (GJL) and temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are inconsistent. Both differences in study designs and the lack of information about the precision of GJL measurements may be contributing to this inconsistency.

Aim: The aim of this study was thus to investigate the reliability (the inter-rater and intra-rater test-retest reliability and internal consistency) of GJL measurements taken by dentists in a general dental practice setting.

Material and methods: A cohort of 50 patients ranging from 20 to 60 years in age (56% female) from a general dental practice was examined twice by two dentists addressing the GJL according to the Beighton Index. The second exam took place after 4 weeks. The inter-rater and intra-rater reliability of measurements was calculated using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Cronbach's alpha was used to assess the measurements' internal consistency.

Results: Inter- and intra-rater reliability was found to be very good to excellent (ICC: 0.84-0.94). Cronbach's alpha (mean 0.75, range 0.66-79) yielded acceptable internal consistency measurements.

Conclusion: The Beighton Index is a reliable instrument for dentists when assessing general joint laxity.