What is Hypermobility Syndrome?
The joint hypermobility syndrome is a condition that features joints that easily move beyond the normal range expected for a particular joint. Hypermobility Syndrome is considered a benign condition. It is estimated that 10%-15% of normal children have hypermobile joints, or joints that can move beyond the normal range of motion. There is a tendency of the condition to run in families. It is felt that certain genes are inherited that predispose to the development of hypermobile joints. Genes that are responsible for the production of collagen, an important protein that helps to glue tissues together, are suspected of playing a role.
What are the Symptoms of Hypermobility Syndrome (HMS)?
People that are Hypermobile are generally more prone to injury because their joints bend much further than in a 'normal' person. Symptoms of the joint hypermobility syndrome include pains in the knees, fingers, hips, and elbows. Scoliosis (curvature of the spine) occurs more frequently in people with hypermobile joints. Joint hypermobility tends to decrease with aging as we become naturally less flexible.
How is Hypermobility Syndrome Diagnosed?
Doctors and physiotherapists use what is called the 'Beighton Score' to diagnose hypermobility. This consists of a series of questions as follows:
- Can you put your hands flat on the floor with your knees straight?
- Can you bend your left elbow backwards?
- Can you bend your right elbow backwards?
- Can you bend your left knee backwards?
- Can you bend your right knee backwards?
- Can you bend your left thumb back onto the front of your forearm?
- Can you bend your right thumb back onto the front of your forearm?
- Can you bend your little finger on your left hand up at 90° to the back of your hand?
- Can you bend your little finger on your right hand up at 90° to the back of your hand.
If you score positively for five or more of these then the chances are that you are hypermobile.
What is the Treatment for Hypermobility Syndrome?
The treatment plan is specifically desgined for each child or adult, based on his or her overall health, medical history, severity of pain or discomfort and other symptoms. The normal parts of treatment include:
- Exercise - Guided exercise programs can be extremely helpful in helping to reduce flexibility and increase muscle strength to help prevent future injury. Activities such as swimming, walking and skating help considerably in improving the joint strength.
- Medications - Hypermobility Syndrome can be really painful so in some cases, over the counter anti-inflammitarys such as Ibuprofeon are needed.
- Orthotics- Some people with Hypermobility may have to consider getting Orthotics. This may include getting better arch supports for your shoes. Orthotics can be really useful and ease the pain and symptoms.
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