NCT07464093 · Brigham and Women's Hospital
STABLE Pilates for Hypermobility
(STABLE)
What this study is about
This study is looking at whether Pilates-based exercise can help with hypermobility-related symptoms, like pain.
View original scientific description
This study is looking at whether Pilates-based exercise can help with hypermobility-related symptoms, like pain.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Pilates
Pilates is a gentle mind-body exercise with an emphasis on muscular control, postural awareness, and breathing that may be particularly well-suited for managing hypermobility. Exercises are mostly floor-based and focus on developing muscular strength and stability which may improve pain and symptom management
BEHAVIORAL
Education
Educational seminars pertaining to hypermobility symptom management
Primary outcome measures
Intervention Feasibility
Time frame: Enrollment to end of intervention (week 6) and follow-up (week 12)
Recruitment, Retention, Attendance
Acceptability
Time frame: Enrollment to end of intervention (week 6)
Treatment Helpfulness Questionnaire (THQ): The THQ is a single-item measure that evaluates the perception of helpfulness of an intervention. Participants will be asked to rate the helpfulness of the intervention to which they are randomized on a scale of -5 (extremely harmful) to 5 (extremely helpful) with 0 indicating "neutral."
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
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
- Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts
Collaborators
Bernard Osher Foundation, National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 11, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations