What is Hypermobility? Understanding Joint Flexibility and Its Impact on Health

If you’ve ever been told you’re "double-jointed" or noticed your joints moving beyond the normal range, you may be dealing with a condition called hypermobility. While some people find their flexibility a fun party trick, for others, it can lead to more serious joint issues. At Muscle People Physiotherapy, we believe understanding hypermobility is the first step in managing it effectively. Let’s dive into what hypermobility is, how it affects the joints, and how it can impact your overall health.

What is Hypermobility?

Hypermobility refers to the ability of your joints to move beyond the normal range of motion. While joint flexibility varies from person to person, individuals with hypermobility have joints that can stretch further, often beyond what is considered typical for their age and gender.

Most of the time, hypermobility is harmless and doesn’t cause any issues. In fact, some people with hypermobile joints are perfectly asymptomatic and might even benefit from their increased flexibility, such as in activities like gymnastics or dance. However, in some cases, hypermobility can lead to discomfort, joint pain, and instability, which can affect everyday activities and overall well-being.

What Causes Hypermobility?

Hypermobility can be caused by a variety of factors. The most common cause is a genetic predisposition. In other words, it can run in families. The structure of the connective tissue in hypermobile individuals is often more elastic than normal, allowing their joints to move beyond the typical range.

In some cases, hypermobility is associated with connective tissue disorders, such as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), which affects collagen production and can lead to joint instability and other health issues. If you suspect you have hypermobility, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

How Does Hypermobility Affect Your Joints?

When a joint is hypermobile, the extra movement can cause a number of issues:

• Joint Instability: With joints that are able to move beyond the usual range, there is a higher risk of instability. This can make the joint feel "loose," and may result in increased stress on the surrounding muscles and ligaments.

• Pain and Discomfort: Over time, hypermobility can cause pain, particularly after physical activities that place additional strain on the joints. People with hypermobile joints often experience pain after prolonged sitting or standing, or after exercise.

• Increased Risk of Injury: The added range of motion can sometimes result in sprains, strains, or other injuries. The extra flexibility can also contribute to joint misalignment or even dislocations, especially if the muscles surrounding the joint aren’t strong enough to provide support.

• Fatigue and Muscle Strain: Muscles around hypermobile joints may have to work harder to stabilise the joints, which can lead to muscle fatigue and tension. This can contribute to further discomfort and a sense of weakness.

The Impact on Overall Health

Hypermobility doesn’t just affect the joints—it can influence your overall quality of life. Here’s how:

• Chronic Pain: Joint pain associated with hypermobility can be chronic, leading to discomfort that interferes with daily activities.

• Postural Problems: Due to joint instability, people with hypermobility may experience posture issues, which can lead to additional back, neck, or muscle pain.

• Reduced Mobility: Over time, joint instability and pain can limit mobility, making it harder to participate in physical activities or even perform basic tasks.

• Emotional and Psychological Impact: Living with chronic pain and physical limitations can take a toll on mental health, leading to frustration, stress, or anxiety.

How Physiotherapy Can Help

At Muscle People Physiotherapy, we provide expert care for individuals with hypermobility. Through a personalised approach, our physiotherapists work with you to manage the symptoms and help you improve your quality of life. Here’s how physiotherapy can make a difference:

• Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening the muscles around hypermobile joints can help provide stability and reduce the risk of injury. A targeted exercise program can increase joint support and help prevent pain.

• Postural Training: Physiotherapy can help correct postural issues and prevent long-term problems related to joint instability.

• Pain Management: Our physiotherapists can teach you techniques to manage pain and discomfort, allowing you to continue with your daily activities more comfortably.

• Education and Lifestyle Advice: We provide guidance on how to avoid excessive joint movement and strategies to protect your joints during daily tasks or exercise.

Final Thoughts

Hypermobility can be a double-edged sword. While it may offer flexibility, it can also lead to joint pain, instability, and an increased risk of injury. Understanding how hypermobility affects your joints is the first step in managing it effectively. If you’re experiencing joint pain or instability, our team at Muscle People Physiotherapy is here to support you. With personalised treatment plans, strengthening exercises, and pain management techniques, we can help you take control of your symptoms and improve your overall well-being.

Reach out to us today and let’s work together to improve your mobility and quality of life!