53. Creating a New Hypermobility Screening Tool with Aiko Callahan, DPT, and Stephanie Greenspan, DPT

In this Bendy Bodies podcast episode, physical therapists Aiko Callahan and Stephanie Greenspan discuss the development of a new hypermobility screening tool, particularly for aesthetic athletes such as dancers and circus performers. The tool aims to assess joint stability and other systemic issues related to hypermobility disorders. They emphasize the limitations of existing assessments like the Beighton Score and highlight the need for a comprehensive screening approach that considers the unique challenges hypermobile athletes face, including issues with proprioception, compensatory movement patterns, and the role of identity in performance. The clinicians also discuss the intricacies of the physical examination process and the importance of a multidisciplinary support team for optimal management of individuals with hypermobility disorders. The new tool provides a structured way for assessing hypermobility issues and is useful for clinicians in different fields to improve the diagnostic process and enable better patient care. Additionally, they discuss ways to integrate this tool within clinical practices to facilitate earlier intervention and comprehensive care plans.