Joint hypermobility is a condition that affects the joints. It basically means that someone with the condition has a larger range of movement in their joints. Joint hypermobility makes the joints supple and easier to move around than normal. Someone with the condition may be able to move their limbs in positions that others find impossible. Joint hypermobility is more commonly known as being double jointed.
What causes joint hypermobility?
Joint hypermobility often runs in the family, it is hereditary. Scientists believe that one of the main causes of hypermobility is genetically changed collagen. Collagen is found everywhere in our bodies, we have it in our skin and our ligaments for example. If this collagen is weaker than it should be, the tissues in our bodies will also be weaker. This makes the joints and the ligaments stretchy and loose. This results in joint hypermobility or the joint being able to move and extend further than usual.
Other conditions linked to joint hypermobility
Most people with joint hypermobility won’t have any problems linked to the condition at all. In fact, some people like dancers, musicians and gymnasts, for example, can actually benefit from the condition as it allows them to move their joints better than someone without the condition.
However, some people with the condition might experience a number of symptoms and conditions that are linked to hypermobility. Some of these conditions are:
- Fatigue
- Clicking Joints
- Stiffness and pain in the muscles and joints
- joints that dislocate
- Recurring injuries
- Dizziness and fainting
- Thin or stretchy skin
- Digestive problems
If joint hypermobility occurs with some of the above symptoms then it is known in the medical world as Joint Hypermobility Syndrome.
Living with joint hypermobility
As we said above, the majority of people who have joint hypermobility, won’t have any problems at all. They won’t require any medical treatment or medical support. However, there are some cases in which this support might be needed. It can be difficult for some people to live with the condition due to the array of symptoms that it can cause. The people that do require help and support will often find that a combination of physiotherapy and exercise can help them greatly. They might also find that pain management will help them to complete daily activities far better than they are able to now.
Due to the nature of joint hypermobility syndrome, treating the condition may mean treating other conditions as they happen as a result of having hypermobility. Things like sprains and dislocations are very common in people affected by joint hypermobility and the pain and other symptoms from these conditions needs to be managed as well.
If you are struggling with joint hypermobility then go and see your GP who will likely find a specialist in your area. They will be able to help you come up with a treatment plan for the long term condition while also helping you take care of the short term symptoms and help you manage daily symptoms.
We hope this article about joint hypermobility has helped you understand it a little better. If it has, please explore our website further for more info about other common conditions.