Hypermobility is when a person has very flexible joints, often called double-jointed. Although this can be advantageous for some people (for example increasing range of motion in athletes) it has to be managed and accompanied by adequate strength to control the joints especially in the extended range of motion.
Hypermobility can be found in almost any joint in the body from the small joints (fingers and toes) to larger more complex joints like hips and shoulders. The more common joints I come across where clients are hypermobile are shoulders, knees, and elbows although many have also displayed instability in the back and hips as well.
For most people hypermobility can cause issues including recurring injuries, joint instability, poor proprioception or coordination, fatigue and muscular pain.
Joint instability
With joint instability the person is prone to injuries especially around the joints, including; sprains and strains through to full joint dislocations.
Poor Proprioception
Most of my hypermobile clients have poor proprioception, meaning their body awareness is not as good as it should be and they have less of an understanding of their body position in space. This can lead to an imbalance in movement in joints, poor posture, mobility issues and increased risk of injury.
Recurring and frequent injury
Many of my hypermobile clients have had recurring injuries from ankle sprains due to rolling their ankles to muscle strains and tears due to loose ligaments and overstretching muscles. This can cause frequent setbacks and can be really debilitating.
To see how I can work with you to improve these issues please read How I work with people with hypermobility.
If you’re not sure whether you or your child is hypermobile start by having a look at the NHS website and Joint Hypermobility Syndrome
I also work with physiotherapists who can assess you or your child for hypermobility and advise on the best path of action. Just contact me for more information.
