Understanding Hypermobility: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
Generalised hypermobility (when your joints can bend further than is typical for most people) is more common than most people think. Some people don’t have a problem with it, but a lot of people have pain and instability, and it’s easily reinjured. It is essential to have a high index of suspicion, as early intervention is associated with a good quality of life.
Hyperflexibility can occur in people of all ages, from children to adults, and is more likely to present itself in an athlete, a dancer, or a gymnast who has more flexibility in their joints. But you don’t have to be hampered by symptoms even if you’re a couch potato. We recognise the difficulties caused by hypermobility and provide expert advice to overcome these difficulties.
This blog post examines the causes, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments for hypermobility and offers useful information for those affected by, or interested in knowing more about, the condition.
What is Hypermobility?
The ability of joints to move beyond their normal range of motion is known as hypermobility, and it is typically caused by connective tissues that are abnormally flexible. Although some individuals with hypermobility are asymptomatic, others suffer discomfort, instability, or frequent injuries.
In daily activities, hypermobility can make quotidian activities, like lugging around a heavy backpack or standing all day, more difficult than they need to be. Others may hear clicking or popping of their joints. Although extra flexibility is an advantage in endeavours such as yoga or dance, it can also be harmful to the joints in the long run when not handled correctly.
Causes of Hypermobility
There are some causes of hypermobility:
Genetic Factors
- Hypermobility tends to be inherited because genes play a role in the production of collagen, the protein that gives tissues their strength and elasticity. Loose joints. If your parents have loose joints, you may have inherited the trait.
Connective Tissue Disorders
Certain medical conditions are associated with hypermobility as a primary or very common symptom, including:
- Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS): A collection of conditions characterised by defects in the body’s collagen, which can cause overly flexible joints and fragile skin.
- Marfan Syndrome: A genetic condition that affects connective tissues, sometimes resulting in elongated arms and legs and hypermobile joints.
Other Contributing Factors
- Age: Children are often more flexible, but many adults also remain hypermobile.
- Joint Shape: Differences in joint shape may allow increased movement.
- Muscle Tone: If your muscles are weak, they may not be able to stabilise your joints as well.
Knowing the source makes it easier to treat.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
Hypermobile children are not always symptomatic, but frequent complaints are:
- Pain and instability of the joints (knees, shoulders, or fingers)
- Recurrent dislocations or sprains
- Muscle fatigue—caused by overworking muscles due to loose joints
- Chronic pain, such as severe fibromyalgia, is frequently misdiagnosed.
- Flat feet or joint clicking
If you have ongoing pain, regular injury, or movement that is restricted and requires extra effort during everyday activities with normal movement, you should book in to see one of the experts for an assessment.
Diagnosis: How It’s Identified
Here are the ways doctors diagnose hypermobility:
1. Beighton Score Test:
This quick test assesses flexibility in nine critical joints (bend the thumb to the forearm; do you hyperextend your knees?). A high score indicates hypermobility.
2. Clinical Evaluation:
The doctor will then review medical history, evaluate symptoms, and look for any related conditions such as EDS or Marfan syndrome.
3. Specialist Referral:
In complicated cases, those who have undergone testing to exclude secondary causes, the rheumatologist or physiotherapist may perform low-level laser therapy.
Treatment and Management
Though hypermobility can’t be cured, it can be well managed to minimise symptoms and enhance joint stability.
Physical Therapy
Specific exercises will do wonders for the muscles surrounding the affected joints, offering more support. A physiotherapist can create a customised plan to improve stability without over-stretching.
Pain Relief
- Treatments Used: Ice/heat pack for pain relief
- Pain medication (such as paracetamol) is available over the counter.
- Creams and gels for muscle pain
Lifestyle Adjustments
- Avoid high-impact activities like contact sports and running.
- Supports and braces for unstable joints
- Choose exercises that are low-impact (swimming, Pilates, cycling)
Severe Cases: Surgery
- In some rare cases, if instability causes drastic harm, surgery of the joint may be necessary.
Daily Care Tips
- Warm up before exercise.
- Take precautions to protect your joints; for instance, when standing, avoid locking your knees.
- Wear supportive footwear.
Living with Hypermobility
Managing hypermobility requires conscious lifestyle consideration:
1. Activity Choices
Tai chi, yoga, and swimming are examples of low-impact exercises that can help you maintain your fitness level without straining your joints.
2. Mental Health Considerations
It is also possible that constant pain takes an emotional toll. Getting therapy or becoming part of a support group can help you with coping mechanisms.
3. Support Options
At Chase Lodge Hospital, our specialists offer tailored advice, from physiotherapy to pain management, ensuring patients lead active, fulfilling lives.
Conclusion
Hypermobility can have a great effect on daily living, yet with the correct treatment, the symptoms can be controlled. Early identification, evaluation from a specialist, and adherence to a strict treatment programme are important for preserving joint health. If you or someone close to you is suffering from hypermobility symptoms, the advice and help of an experienced expert can be life-changing.
