Hypermobility is an inherited disorder of connective tissue that causes people to be incredibly flexible and agile. We take a closer look at hypermobility and what you can do to reduce symptoms in this blog. Read on quickly below.
What is it?
Hypermobility is an inherited condition in which several joints in the body have greater than usual mobility. This is caused by an abnormality in connective tissue, particularly in the proteins collagen and fibrillin, which normally provide strength. As a result, the ligaments and capsules around the joints are more elastic than average, allowing them to stretch further than most people can. This manifests itself especially in the fingers, knees and spine.

What causes hypermobility?
Hypermobility is caused by hereditary predisposition. Some people have naturally more flexible connective tissue than others and there is little that can be done about it. Children are also generally more flexible than adults. In most cases, hypermobility is no cause for concern. Only when pain symptoms occur is it important to intervene and take action.
What symptoms occur with hypermobility?
There are several characteristics and symptoms for hypermobility. We list them below.
- Hypermobile joints: people with hypermobility can move their joints further than normal,
- Supple ligaments and tendons: joints do not get enough support because the ligaments around the joints are too long and too weak.
- Reduced stability: joints can dislocate more easily.
- Pain: common complaints are joint pain, muscle pain and lower back pain.
- Fatigue: muscles get tired faster due to overcompensation for the unstable joints.
- Swelling: joints may swell due to fluid accumulation.
- Motor development: in some cases, motor development in children is delayed.
How is hypermobility diagnosed?
You can determine whether you are hypermobile if:
- You can touch the forearm with your thumb
- You can overstretch the hand to an angle of 90 degrees
- You can bend over easily and place the hands flat on the floor without bending the knees
- Stretch the knee with ease
- Stretch the elbow with ease

What can you do about it?
Hypermobility cannot be cured. But there are some things you can do to reduce the symptoms. We list them for you below.
Conservative treatments
- Physiotherapy: a physiotherapist can recommend exercises to strengthen the muscles around the joints, which helps compensate for instability.
- Occupational therapy: an occupational therapist can give advice on posture, movement and the use of assistive devices to reduce symptoms.
- Assistive devices: there are several aids to use when you experience symptoms from your hypermobility. These include a knee brace or orthotics
- Pain relief: if you experience annoying pain symptoms, you may consider taking painkillers. For inflamed or swollen joints, anti-inflammatory painkillers (NSAIDs) can be effective. Always consult with your GP or treating physician.
Surgical treatments
When conservative treatments do not yield sufficient results, surgery may be necessary in certain cases:
- In the case of an unstable wrist or thumb, surgery may be performed to repair or strengthen the affected ligament.
- In cases of repeated dislocations, such as in the thumb, the tendons may be surgically shortened to improve stability.
Need more information?
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