What is Hypermobility Syndrome?
By Sara Butler
If you’ve ever known anyone who is “double jointed,” then you know someone who suffers from hypermobility syndrome. Chiropractors see cases of this more than you may think and it’s not a condition that is healthy for the joints. Here is what you need to know about hypermobility syndrome and how chiropractic care can help.
What is Hypermobility Syndrome?
This is a condition of the joints that allow them to move beyond what is considered the normal range of motion for that specific joint. It’s commonly a genetic disorder that is passed on in families, with an estimated 10 to 15 percent of children, who are otherwise considered healthy, affected.
This disorder isn’t just limited to children and can be found in people of all ages and in both sexes, though girls seem to be more prone to hypermobility than boys.
Signs and Symptoms
The symptoms of hypermobility syndrome can vary from person to person. Some people experience no symptoms at all while others experience symptoms that range from mild aches and pains to severe pain and swelling.
Pain and swelling are normally noticed later in the day after exercise or moderate physical activity. Pain is normally experienced in the:
- Elbows
- Thighs
- Calf muscles
- Knees
A person who has hypermobility syndrome will be more prone to injuries and sprains of the soft tissues surrounding the joints. The joints affected are also more prone to dislocation than other joints. It can also cause complications such as:
- Flat feet
- Impaired sense of joint position
- Increased bruising
- Loose skin
- Osteoarthritis
- Nerve compression disorders
- Chronic pain
Children tend to grow out of hypermobility syndrome due to the fact that the joints lose mobility with age. Symptoms will rarely extend beyond childhood, but some adults do find they are more prone to sprains and dislocations even after they’ve grown out of it.
How the Chiropractor Can Help
Chiropractors can help their patients to manage the symptoms associated with hypermobility. The chiropractor uses adjustments to help bring the joints into a more appropriate movement pattern, helping to resolve any joint dysfunction or restriction that can result from hypermobility. This relieves the added stress and strain on the joint that was placed upon them as they attempt to compensate for misalignments. They may also advise certain exercises be performed at home to help find relief.
If you suspect your child has hypermobility syndrome, then make sure to get them into see the chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic!
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.
