MEDICAL CONDITIONS
Hypermobility Syndrome
(Joint Hypermobility Syndrome) Medical Author: William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR
What is the joint hypermobility syndrome?
The joint hypermobility syndrome is a condition that features joints that easily move beyond the normal range expected for a particular joint. The joint hypermobility syndrome is considered a benign condition. It is estimated that 10-15% of normal children have hypermobile joints, i.e. joints that can move beyond the normal range of motion. There is definitely a tendency of the condition to run in families (familial). Joint hypermobility is also a feature of a rare, but more significant medical condition called Ehlers-Danlos syndrome that is characterized by weakness of the connective tissues of the body. This condition is inherited in certain genes passed on by parents to their children.
What are the symptoms and signs of joint hypermobility?
Because the joints are capable of excessive motion in persons with the joint hypermobility syndrome, they are susceptible to injury. Symptoms of the joint hypermobility syndrome include pains in the knees, fingers, hips, and elbows. There is a higher incidence of dislocation and sprains of involved joints. Scoliosis (curvature of the spine) is seen more frequently associated with hypermobile joints. Joint hypermobility tends to decrease with aging as we become naturally less flexible.
Signs of the syndrome are the ability to place the palms of the hands on the floor with the knees fully extended, hyperextension of the knee or elbow beyond 10 degrees, and the ability to touch the thumb to the forearm.
How is hypermobility syndrome treated?
Often joint hypermobility causes no symptoms and requires no treatment. Many individuals with the joint hypermobility syndrome improve in adulthood. Treatments are customized for each individual based on their particular manifestations. Joint pains can be relieved by medications for pain or inflammation. Proper physical fitness exercise can strengthen muscles and stability, but the nature of the exercise should be designed to avoid injury to joints.
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