People with OI experience recurrent fractures; however they are also more likely to have other musculoskeletal issues such as dislocated joints, tendon and ligament injuries compared to the general population. This has been raised as a key concern by adults with OI, but there is no evidence on prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints and how therapy might best be organised for them.  This study aim was to quantify and describe the types of soft-tissue problems adults with OI suffer with and what adults with OI perceive the problems to be.

This study was a cross-sectional analysis of outpatients with Osteogenesis Imperfecta.  Adults attending a newly established multidisciplinary clinic at a tertiary centre in 2019 were included. A highly specialist physiotherapist worked within the clinic to offer therapy input if required and to refer patients to appropriate therapy as needed. People over the age of 18 were included if they had a diagnosis of Osteogenesis Imperfecta.

The analysis highlighted the high prevalence of MSK pain in adults with OI and the effect on physical function and emotional wellbeing. The study demonstrates the diverse needs of the adult Osteogenesis Imperfecta population and the need for suitable multidisciplinary therapy services.

The full paper can be read here.