What can you do for hypermobility?
Hyper-mobility – What can you do about it?
Hyper-mobility means your are more flexible in the joints than the average person. It’s believed that hyper-mobility is genetic and is more common in females. A common question we get as Physiotherapists is, is it a bad thing and what can you do about it?
Figure 1: Finger and Back Pain - Hyper-mobility - Physio Frenchs Forest, Physio Macquarie Park
First of all hyper-mobility can be a great thing for some but not others. For example, if you play a sport or perform a role that requires lots of mobility such as surfing, waterpolo or dancing then you will likely perform better than those who aren’t as flexible. In contract in contact sports such as rugby union, someone who has hyper-mobility will often have a higher rate of severe injuries such as ACL ruptures and shoulder dislocation. Hypermobility can also make you more susceptible to developing certain pathologies such as scoliosis, achilles tendinopathy and many more.
Symptoms of hyper-mobility:
1) Muscle strain or pain – Due to the large amount of movement occurring at the joints, muscles can be overworked and if this happens repetitively then may develop an over-use injury. Most patients who have hyper-mobility will complain that they always have sore muscles or joints.
Figure 2: Finger and Back Pain - Hyper-mobility - Physio Frenchs Forest, Physio Macquarie Park
2) Unstable joints – Some patients will mention they feel like the joint has moved out of place. When an excess load is placed on the joint in the wrong direction then it may force the joint to move in and out of the socket.
How is hyper-mobility diagnosed?
The picture on the left shows examples of how to assess hyper-mobility. The Beighton score is a popular screening technique for hyper-mobility. This is a nine point scale and requires the performance of 5 maneuver (thumb and wrist, elbow, lower back and knee’s). A score of 4-9 demonstrates ligament laxity and hyper-mobility. However there is no universal agreement on this number.
How is hyper-mobility managed?
Unfortunately, hyper-mobility cannot be cured or changed. It’s important to see your Physiotherapist if you are having any pain or aches in your joints as your hyper-mobility is a possible contributor. The Physiotherapist will provide education on what pathologies to be aware of, how to adjust possible behaviours and prescribe strengthening/stability exercises if indicated.