Hydrotherapy and Joint Hypermobility Syndrome, version 1.0
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A randomised-controlled trial to investigate the effect of long-term hydrotherapy on Joint Hypermobility Syndrome in children and adolescents.
IRAS ID
301278
Contact name
Nicola Theis
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Gloucestershire
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Joint hypermobility syndrome (JHS) is a connective tissue disorder causing excessive joint movement. It often presents as chronic pain, stiffness, altered walking patterns, fatigue, and decreased strength; leading to joint instability that increases injury risk. These symptoms can reduce participation in activities of daily living with subsequent negative effects on mental health and quality of life. Previous research in this population has predominantly focused on adult populations and short-term treatment modalities. However, JHS is commonly diagnosed in children and adolescents and requires long-term management.
Hydrotherapy has effectively managed similar disorders in a safe environment that decreases injury risk, due to the buoyancy resistance and temperature of the water. However, limited research surrounding the use of hydrotherapy for those with JHS exists. Since there is no cure, investigating if long-term hydrotherapy improves the patients’ physical and mental health and quality of life is of upmost importance.The aim of the current project is to assess the effects of 6 months hydrotherapy on mobility, strength, pain, mental health, and quality of life in children and adolescents with JHS.
An experimental group of 18 children and adolescents with JHS will take part in 1 hour of hydrotherapy each week for 6 months. At baseline, 6, 12, 18 and 24 weeks, measures of mobility, strength, pain, mental health and quality of life will be compared to 18 children in a control group who will continue with usual care. Hydrotherapy sessions will be provided by the Chamwell Centre Charity and all assessments will take place at University of Gloucestershire. Each experimental session would be expected to take approximatley 60 minutes.
REC name
East of England - Cambridge Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
21/EE/0244
Date of REC Opinion
11 Nov 2021
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion