Beighton Score Calculator

The Beighton score evaluates flexibility across nine specific anatomical sites, awarding either 0 or 1 point for each movement based on whether a specific range of motion is met. The assessment is scored out of a maximum of 9 points. The calculation formula sums the individual binary test results: Score = Flat (placement of palms on the floor) + Left Knee + Right Knee + Left Finger + Left Elbow + Right Elbow + Left Thumb + Right Thumb + Right Finger. Each positive test adds 1 point to the aggregate total.

Imagine an adult undergoing a flexibility assessment to understand recurring joint subluxations. During the evaluation, the individual successfully places their flat palms entirely on the floor without bending their knees (1 point). When testing their elbows and knees, both left and right elbows hyperextend beyond 10 degrees (2 points), but their knees do not show hyperextension (0 points). Their left and right little fingers easily pull backward past 90 degrees (2 points), and both thumbs can touch the inner forearm (2 points). However, they cannot bend their fingers backward past the right angle on either hand. Summing these values gives: 1 (flat) + 0 (left knee) + 0 (right knee) + 1 (left finger) + 1 (right finger) + 1 (left elbow) + 1 (right elbow) + 1 (left thumb) + 1 (right thumb), resulting in a total Beighton score of 7 out of 9, strongly indicating generalized joint hypermobility.

Always perform these tests gently and without forcing your joints past a comfortable threshold to prevent injury or strain. It is best to have a partner, physical therapist, or clinician assist with the examination, as viewing your own elbow hyperextension or fifth finger angle can be misleading. Keep in mind that a high score indicates hypermobility, but a formal clinical diagnosis requires evaluating a broader medical history and presence of systemic symptoms.