Hypermobility - More Than Just “Being Bendy”
Hypermobility often called people “double-jointed” - it’s not an excess of joints but due to changes in Collagen leading to increased ligament and/or connective tissue laxity. For some, Hypermobility can be without adverse effects, however, for others it can come with a miriad of symptoms and an impact upon daily life.
Understanding Hypermobility: How Osteopathy Can Help?
What Is Hypermobility?
Hypermobility is a condition where joints move beyond the normal range of motion due to increased ligament laxity. While some individuals with Hypermobility experience no adverse effects, others may develop pain, instability, and musculoskeletal issues that impact daily life. Understanding Hypermobility and seeking appropriate management, such as with the right Osteopath and/or Physiotherapist, can be crucial for maintaining function and wellbeing.
Hypermobility is typically caused by alterations in connective tissue, primarily Collagen, which provides structural support to joints. It can occur as an isolated trait or as part of a syndrome, such as Benign Joint Hypermobility or Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). The Beighton Score, a simple screening tool, is often used to assess hypermobility by evaluating the flexibility of various joints (Scheper et al., 2020) can be used alongside additional tests and be combined with a thorough medical history but the Beighton Score should not be used as a “stand-alone” method to diagnose Hypermobility or Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.
Symptoms of Hypermobility
Individuals with various degrees of Hypermobility may experience a range of symptoms, including:
Joint pain and discomfort, particularly after activity
Recurrent joint subluxations or dislocations
Muscle fatigue and weakness
Poor proprioception (awareness of joint position)
Postural issues which could lead to back, neck and joint pain
Increased risk of soft tissue injuries, such as sprains and strains
Digestive issues, dizziness, and autonomic nervous system dysfunction in severe cases (Castori et al., 2017)
These symptoms can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life, making appropriate management essential.
How Can Osteopaths Help?
Osteopathy offers a holistic approach to managing Hypermobility by addressing musculoskeletal imbalances, improving joint stability, and enhancing overall function. Osteopathic treatment can include:
Manual Therapy - Gentle soft tissue techniques, joint mobilisation, and myofascial release help to reduce muscle tension and improve circulation, which may alleviate pain and discomfort (Franklin et al., 2019).
Exercise Prescription - Strengthening exercises, particularly for core and stabilising muscles, are essential for improving joint support and reducing the risk of injury. Proprioceptive training can also enhance balance and coordination (Scheper et al., 2020).
Postural Advice - Osteopaths can provide guidance on posture and movement patterns to minimise strain on hypermobile joints and prevent compensatory issues.
Pain Management Strategies - Education on pacing, lifestyle modifications, and ergonomic adjustments can help individuals manage symptoms effectively.
Final Thoughts
While hypermobility cannot be cured, Osteopathy can play a significant role in improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing quality of life. If you suspect you have hypermobility or struggle with related symptoms, seeking an assessment from a qualified osteopath can be a valuable step toward better joint health.
References
Castori, M., Tinkle, B., Levy, H., Grahame, R., Malfait, F., & Hakim, A. (2017). A framework for the classification of joint hypermobility and related conditions. American Journal of Medical Genetics Part C: Seminars in Medical Genetics, 175(1), 148-157.
Franklin, S. H., Firshman, A. M., & Wilkinson, L. (2019). The role of myofascial release and manual therapy in managing hypermobility. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 23(2), 245-255.
Scheper, M. C., Engelbert, R. H., Rameckers, E. A., Verbunt, J., de Vries, J., & Nollet, F. (2020). Development and validation of the hypermobility screening questionnaire. Physical Therapy, 100(8), 1390-1402.
