Stable Pilates for hypermobility symptoms
Official title: Pilates for Hypermobility: A Pilot Feasibility Study
Run by Brigham and Women's Hospital · NCT07464093 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether six weeks of Pilates-led by a licensed physical therapist can reduce pain and related symptoms in adults with hypermobility conditions like hEDS/HSD.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Brigham and Women's Hospital Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | July 9, 2026 |
| Main results expected | December 2026 |
| Study ends | December 2027 |
| Registry record updated | August 19, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07464093 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults (18+) with self-reported hypermobility and a suspected or confirmed hEDS/HSD diagnosis, who have persistent pain for at least 3 months and can perform floor-based exercises.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals who regularly practice mind-body activities, have recent major injuries, neurological/movement disorders, or cannot complete floor-based activities may not experience benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This interventional study examines a six-week Pilates-based exercise program guided by a licensed physical therapist to help adults with hypermobility-related pain. The program emphasizes muscular control, posture, and breathing through mostly floor-based exercises to build strength and stability. Eligible participants are adults with self-reported hypermobility and persistent pain, able to participate in floor-based activities and communicate in English. The intervention also includes education as part of the regimen. Outcome measures focus on changes in pain and functional symptoms over the study period.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, participants may experience reduced pain and better symptom management through a structured, gentle exercise approach.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research suggests that Pilates-like exercise can help manage hypermobility-related symptoms, though findings vary by program and population.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * ≥ 18 years old; * Self-reported hypermobility with confirmed or suspected diagnosis of hEDS/HSD; * Self-reported persistent pain ≥ 3 months; * A minimum of 3/10 self-reported pain intensity in the past week * Able to get on and off the floor without assistance; * Able to communicate fluently in English; and * Able to provide written, informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Regular ongoing mind-body practice (e.g. Tai chi, yoga, pilates) defined as a regular weekly practice of at least 20min/week over the past 6 months; * Recent surgery or acute bone, joint or nerve injury (\<6 months); * Have a history of a severe or progressive neurological or movement disorder; * Pregnant, planning to become pregnant during the study, or currently breast feeding; * Unable to get on and off the floor without assistance; * Unable to complete study procedures due to cognitive impairment; * Unable to provide written, informed consent; or * Currently participating in or planning to participate in another physical activity, mind-body or pain-related intervention research study in the next 4 months.
Where it's running
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Brigham and Women's Hospital
Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Samantha Meints, PhD — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Stephanie Voss, PhD
- Email: svoss2@bwh.harvard.edu
- Phone: 6177329181
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.