Hypermobility


Double-jointedness or Hypermobility is a term used to describe joints that move (or used to move) beyond normal ranges due to lax ligaments and alterations in collagen. It can affect the fingers and toes, the jaw and neck or be generalised throughout the body. It is more noticeable when young when joints “click" but as people age, they often feel “as stiff as a board”.

When hypermobility is associated with muscle strains, soft tissue injury, joints slipping out of place and/or fatigue, it is referred to clinically, as a Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD).

There is often a family history of bendiness which is most remarkable in children.

Sometimes the skin can be mildly stretchy with easy bruising and poor wound healing which alongside hypermobility may be referred to clinically as hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS). It can be associated with persisting fatigue, anxiety and digestive issues.

Janet is double-jointed herself and specialises in dealing with the musculoskeletal manifestations of hypermobility. She is Professional Member of the Hypermobility Syndromes Association (HMSA) an EDS Echo Allied Healthcare Professional.