An exploration of physiotherapy-related musculoskeletal health of women with Hypermobility conditions throughout pregnancy up to one-year post-partum; qualitative research.

Aims: We aim to explore musculoskeletal health and musculoskeletal physiotherapy for women living with Hypermobility conditions throughout pregnancy and up to one-year after pregnancy. We also aim to explore the experiences and views of physiotherapists treating these women in health care settings. This will include exploring the skills and knowledge and confidence levels of physiotherapists caring for these women.

Background: The term ‘Hypermobility conditions’ describes a number of conditions which affect connective tissues. Connective tissues provide a support structure for the human body, ensuring our joints, muscles and organs remain where they should be at any given time. In hypermobility, connective tissue problems often cause joint dislocations, ‘loose’ joints, pain, fatigue and disability. Women with hypermobility conditions have increased risks of complications during and after pregnancy and can find it harder to care for their babies. There is no research yet about musculoskeletal physiotherapy treatment for these women during/after pregnancy.

Methods: We will recruit approximately 20 participants who are between 5-7 months pregnant with a diagnosed Hypermobility condition and invite them to three on-line interviews to tell us about their experiences and views. Interviews will be conducted at around 7-months of pregnancy, 3-months post-pregnancy, and 1-year post-pregnancy.
We will recruit approximately 48 physiotherapists to take part in approximately six on-line focus groups. Each participant will complete a short questionnaire regarding background, experience, training, and confidence levels. We will analyse all data using trusted techniques.

Patient and Public Involvement: The study team will include a lay member of the public with direct experience of pregnancy and hypermobility throughout.

Dissemination/outputs: We will share our results via journal articles, conferences, and Hypermobility websites/charities. We will use the results to create a future survey and inform a larger planned project to co-create a new intervention to improve physiotherapy care for this population group.