As a rather flexible person myself, I have been noticing quite a few hypermobile ‘bendy’ bodies in the clinic lately.
The public perception is that mobility is great, but when is too bendy too much?
What can hypermobility look like?
Hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSDs) is a spectrum of benign hypermobility. It can be isolated to one joint or affect multiple joints across the body.
Whilst under the same umbrella, not to be confused with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), which is a heritable connective tissue disorder.
How to identify it?
Hypermobility disorders affect 3-4% of the population and are more common in women. It is often underdiagnosed. (1)
Diagnosis includes:
- 5-Part Questionnaire
- 9-point scoring system
- Physical examination with a professional
Common symptoms include being double-jointed, hyper-extended elbows and knees.
Can it cause pain?
People with joint hypermobility are more likely to experience chronic widespread pain (1).
It can give rise to secondary manifestations such as trauma (dislocations, subluxations and silent microtrauma), chronic pain in affected joints, disturbed proprioception and other musculoskeletal traits (scoliosis, flat feet, knock knees).
How can Osteopathy help?
Osteopathic manual assessment can assess for hypermobility and help understand the role of hypermobility in your healthcare puzzle. Osteopathic treatment can decrease muscle tension and reduce pain. It has also been suggested that treatment of dysautonomia in patients with hypermobility may help improve symptoms (1). This can be done using the Perrin Technique.
Lifestyle modifications and appropriate strength and conditioning programs are recommended to stabilise joints. Specifically, high-load isometric exercises have shown promise in stabilising hypermobile shoulders. (1)
If you suspect hypermobility or have concerns about joint pain or mobility, the Osteopaths at Canterbury Health Hub would be happy to help! If you have any questions or need any advice, contact our team at Canterbury Health Hub!
- Carroll, M. (2023) Hypermobility spectrum disorders: A review. Rheumatology and Immunology Research, Vol. 4 (Issue 2), pp. 60-68. https://doi.org/10.2478/rir-20...