Hypermobility is the term used to describe joint flexibility that is greater than what would be considered normal. This flexibility can be a useful asset in sport, dance or other performance arts. However, it can also be the feature of heritable connective tissue disorders such as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Hypermobility Type (hEDS) or Joint Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (JHS). It is important to understand that hypermobility can be a risk factor for musculoskeletal injuries and pain.
A physical therapist who is knowledgeable about the conditions of joint hypermobility can provide valuable advice to individuals seeking help for chronic pain and injury. The therapist can assist in teaching strategies to improve balance and stability and reduce compensations that may contribute to injury. Manual therapy including mobilisation of stiff joints, myofascial release, trigger point work and relaxation techniques can be helpful. Hydrotherapy can be particularly useful if weightbearing or land based exercise is painful or not possible due to joint pain.
The most common complaint of individuals with hEDS or JHS is pain. This can be present in a localized area or widespread and can be caused by joint instability, overload of muscles, tendons and ligaments or abnormal movement patterns. It is also common for people with hEDS or JHS to feel hypersensitive to pain; they are likely to experience a more intense pain response than people who do not have this condition.
Pain can result in a decreased level of activity and an increased fear of activities that might cause pain. This can lead to general deconditioning and weakness, which can leave the joints even more vulnerable and lead to further injury. Pushing through this cycle of increasing injury can lead to a progressive loss of function, deformities and disability.
Individuals with hEDS or JHS often adapt to this pattern of dysfunction by altering the mechanics of how they move. They may develop a “collapsed” posture with winging of the shoulder blades or hyperextended knees, a weak core or reduced stability of the spine, altered motor control, poor dynamic muscle coordination and fatigue.
These patterns of dysfunction are linked with a number of health complications such as easy bruising, varicose veins, low blood volume and Raynaud’s Syndrome. Some people with hypermobility are also prone to other medical conditions such as anxiety, fibromyalgia, autonomic nervous system problems (dysautonomia) or fainting or dizziness (syncope).
It is important that any individual with a suspected joint hypermobility seek the care of a physician who can assess and treat the individual. This can include a primary care physician, rheumatologist or geneticist. A skilled Hypermobility physical therapy therapist can be instrumental in creating a plan to minimize injury and pain while improving the use of all body parts. If you have hypermobility and are experiencing aches and pains, contact Synergy Physical Therapy in Bellevue to schedule an appointment with one of our talented physical therapists today! Our physical therapists are experienced in treating the conditions associated with syndromic hypermobility. We are dedicated to helping you get back your quality of life.
