The Beighton Score is a screening tool used to assess generalised joint hypermobility.

It consists of 5 movements, and scored out of 9.

Test 1: Rest the forearm on a flat surface with the palm down. Can the pinky finger be bent backwards beyond 90 degrees? If yes, add one point for each hand.

Test 2: With arms out straight, palm facing down, and the wrist fully bent downward, can the thumb be pushed back to touch the forearm? If yes, add one point for each thumb.

Test 3: With arms outstretched and palms facing upwards, does the elbow bend backwards more than 10 degrees beyond a straight line? If yes, add one point for each side

Test 4: While standing, do the knees bend backwards more than 10 degrees beyond a straight line? If yes, add one point for each side.

Test 5: While standing, can you bend forward and place the palms of your hands flat on the floor in front of your feet without bending your knees? If yes, add one point.

Generalised joint hypermobility is indicated when:

*6 years old to adolescence score 6 or more points out of 9

*Adolescence to 50 years old score 5 or more points out of 9

*50 years and older score 4 or more points out of 9

This test is not suited to children under the age of 6, as they are often hypermobile at this stage of life, which is a normal part of development.

The Beighton Score is just one tool used in assessing hypermobility. It only screens a few joints, and does not classify the degree of hypermobility.