Joint hypermobility syndrome (2024)

FAQs

How serious is joint hypermobility syndrome? ›

In most people, this causes no problems and does not require treatment. However, in some people, hypermobile joints can cause joint pain and result in higher rates of subluxation, dislocations, sprains and secondary osteoarthritis. Sometimes this is known as benign hypermobility syndrome.

Whether or not hypermobility is considered a disability depends on the severity of the symptoms. Many people with hypermobility syndrome only have mild symptoms, and only in a few joints. For others, their life can be seriously affected by the syndrome. It can impede them from carrying out basic daily living tasks.

Some people have problems caused by hypermobility, but do not have any of the specific EDS conditions. They may be diagnosed with hypermobility spectrum disorder (HSD), which is treated in the same way as hEDS.

Patients with the classical and hypermobility forms of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome have a normal life expectancy. About 80% of patients with vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome will experience a major health event by age 40 and the life expectancy is shortened, with an average age of death of 48 years.

You won't need treatment of your joint hypermobility if doesn't cause any problems. But, you may need treatment and support if you have hEDS or HSD. These can cause a wide range of symptoms, including joint pain and digestive problems.

In most people, hypermobility doesn't cause any pain or medical issues. However, for some people, hypermobility causes joint pain, joint and ligament injuries, tiredness (fatigue), bowel issues and other symptoms. Joint hypermobility syndrome is most common in children and young people.

Joint hypermobility syndrome is when you have very flexible joints and it causes you pain (you may think of yourself as being double-jointed). It usually affects children and young people and often gets better as you get older.

Many studies have shown a strong link between hypermobility and Autism, with up to 80% of Autistic individuals experiencing hypermobility. This connection is not fully understood, but researchers believe that there may be a genetic component involved.

Increased likelihood of chronic physical symptoms, including fatigue and pain, are also recognised. Over the years there have been several published case-reports of the association between autism/ADHD and hypermobility, including small studies in children.

What are the bowel problems with hypermobility? ›

The lower digestive tract can present problems such as constipation, abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhoea and a feeling of general abdominal discomfort. Nausea and vomiting can occur alongside any of the symptoms described above.

Avoid higher level traditional Pilates exercises that can be excessively difficult and can put undue stresses on the body. If doing a Pilates class, then inform the instructor about your condition first. A good instructor should then be able to modify the exercises so that they are appropriate for you.

Patients with EDS, especially those with EDS hypermobility type, are often misdiagnosed with conditions such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, or depression, given the overlap of symptoms and the psychosocial impact they have on the patient.

Due to the collagen in the skin being extra stretchy, many EDS patients experience a lack of wrinkles as they age. This collagen may help EDS patients look younger and can also cause skin to feel extremely soft.

Hypermobility can cause a range of symptoms that often affect many parts of the body. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and can have a great impact on someone's life: pain and stiffness in the joints and muscles – particularly towards the end of the day and after physical activity. clicking joints.

While there is no cure for HSD or hEDS, treatment can ensure your joints are better protected and can lessen the impact of your symptoms. Many people with a hypermobility syndrome can live a full and active life but it is important to follow healthcare professionals' advice.

Joint hypermobility syndrome is when you have very flexible joints and it causes you pain (you may think of yourself as being double-jointed). It usually affects children and young people and often gets better as you get older.

Joint hypermobility syndrome is a common cause of chronic pain and fatigue seen in at least 3% of the general population. Patients may also present with headaches, anxiety, orthostasis, and abdominal pain. Providers can use the Beighton Score and Brighton Criteria to screen for joint hypermobility syndrome.