Joint Hyperlaxity and Volar Plate Dynamics: MRI-Based Comparative Evaluation of the PIP Joint

Background: The volar plate (VP) is a key stabilizer of the proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ), and its biomechanical behavior may be altered in individuals with joint hypermobility.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the spatial dynamics of the VP and its relationship with the center of joint motion and flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) tendon in individuals with and without joint hyperlaxity using MRI.

Methods: Thirty-two healthy volunteers (16 hyperlax, 16 controls) underwent MRI imaging of both index fingers at five flexion angles (0°, 30°, 60°, 90°, full flexion) and under passive and isometric loading conditions. Key parameters measured included distances from the joint center to VP attachments, VP-FDP tendon distance, and the length between VP ends.

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Key information

Conditions

Hypermobility, Joint Joint Diseases Joint Instability Musculoskeletal Diseases

Age range

18 year–65 year

Sex eligibility

All sexes

Study type

Observational

Primary location

Hacettepe University

Ankara, 06100, Turkey (Türkiye)

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: Yes

Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.

Inclusion criteria

between 18-65 years

Exclusion criteria

any history of acute or overuse injuries to the examined hand,
any prior surgical procedures on the examined upper extremity.

Treatment and study plan

Primary outcomes

The Distance Between the Center of Motion (CoM) and the VPLip and VPTip

Time frame: baseline

The distances between the center of motion (CoM) and the volar lip of the middle phalanx base (VPLip), and between the CoM and the proximal end of the volar plate at its attachment to the volar base of the proximal phalanx (VPTip), were measured using RadiAnt DICOM Viewer software (version 2024.1) in various PIPJ angles.
The Distance Between VPLip and VPTip

Time frame: baseline

The distance between the volar lip of the middle phalanx base (VPLip), and the proximal end of the volar plate at its attachment to the volar base of the proximal phalanx (VPTip) measured using RadiAnt DICOM Viewer software (version 2024.1) in various PIPJ angles. The purpose of this measurement was to observe how the distance between the two ends of the volar plate changes with varying joint angles.
The Distance Between Volar Plate (VP) and FDP Tendon

Time frame: baseline

The distance between the midpoint of the volar plate (VP) and the flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) tendon was measured using RadiAnt DICOM Viewer software (version 2024.1) at various proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) angles. The purpose of this measurement was to observe how this distance changes across different flexion angles.
Changes Observed During Grasping and Isometric Contraction

Time frame: baseline

Measurements at all flexion angles were conducted under two conditions: while passively grasping a cylindrical object (without force) and during isometric contraction (with force).

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

Hacettepe University

Other

Collaborators

Baskent University Ankara Hospital

Registry information

Important dates

Study start: 2023
Primary completion: 2023
Study completion: 2024
First posted: Jul 24, 2025
Registry last updated: Jul 24, 2025

OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.

View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)

This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.

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Completed