Hypermobility
What is Hypermobility?
Hypermobility refers to an excessive range of motion in the joints beyond the normal limits. It occurs when connective tissues, such as ligaments and tendons, are more elastic or lax than usual, allowing joints to move farther than they should. This condition can affect one or more joints and is sometimes referred to as joint hypermobility or hypermobility syndrome.
While some degree of hypermobility is common, particularly in children or athletes, it becomes a concern when it causes pain, instability, or an increased risk of injuries. Hypermobility can also be part of a broader condition, such as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) or Marfan Syndrome, which may affect other systems of the body.
Causes of Hypermobility
Inherited traits play a significant role, with conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome leading to hyperelastic connective tissues.
Young individuals are more likely to exhibit hypermobility due to naturally more elastic tissues.
Differences in bone shape or joint structure may predispose some individuals to hypermobility.
Activities like gymnastics, ballet, or yoga that emphasize flexibility can increase joint range of motion over time.
Hormones such as relaxin, particularly during pregnancy, can temporarily increase joint laxity.
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Symptoms of Hypermobility
- Joint Pain: Discomfort, particularly after physical activity or prolonged use of the affected joints.
- Frequent Injuries: Recurrent sprains, strains, or dislocations due to joint instability.
- Fatigue: Muscle fatigue from overcompensating to support hypermobile joints.
- Balance and Coordination Issues: Difficulty maintaining stability, leading to clumsiness or falls.
- Postural Problems: Poor posture or joint alignment due to instability, which can lead to chronic pain.
- Other Symptoms: In more severe cases, individuals may experience dizziness, gastrointestinal issues, or autonomic dysfunction as part of a broader syndrome.
Why Rehabilitation is Crucial for Hypermobility
Without proper management, hypermobility can lead to chronic pain, joint degeneration, and frequent injuries. Rehabilitation focuses on strengthening the muscles surrounding the joints, improving proprioception (body awareness), and enhancing joint stability to prevent long-term complications.
Treatment Modalities for Hypermobility at ActiveCare Physiotherapy & Rehab
At ActiveCare Physiotherapy & Rehab, we offer a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to managing hypermobility. Our multidisciplinary team works together to design personalized treatment plans aimed at improving function, reducing symptoms, and enhancing overall quality of life.
- Physiotherapy (Primary Modality)
- Massage Therapy
- Chiropractic Care
- Acupuncture
- Naturopathy
Physiotherapy is the cornerstone of hypermobility management, addressing both symptoms and underlying causes. Our experienced physiotherapists focus on:
- Strength Training: Strengthening the muscles around hypermobile joints provides support and reduces the risk of injuries. Specific exercises target weak or overworked muscle groups to restore balance.
- Stabilization Exercises: Techniques to improve joint stability by engaging core and surrounding musculature to support hypermobile areas.
- Proprioceptive Training: Exercises to enhance body awareness and joint position sense, reducing the likelihood of excessive joint movement or injury.
- Postural Education: Correcting posture to align joints properly, minimizing strain on hypermobile areas.
- Low-Impact Conditioning: Activities like swimming or cycling to improve overall fitness without putting undue stress on the joints.
Massage therapy is beneficial for relieving muscle tension caused by compensatory patterns associated with hypermobility.
- Myofascial Release: Addresses tight fascia and improves mobility in overcompensating muscles.
- Trigger Point Therapy: Relieves localized pain and tension in muscles stressed from supporting hypermobile joints
Chiropractic adjustments focus on ensuring proper joint alignment, especially in areas where instability leads to pain or poor movement patterns.
- Gentle Adjustments: Targeted manipulations to restore proper alignment and relieve joint discomfort.
- Joint Mobilization: Gentle techniques to improve function without exacerbating hypermobility.
Acupuncture can help manage pain and improve overall well-being for individuals with hypermobility.
- Pain Relief: Targeting specific points to alleviate chronic pain and muscle tension.
- Stress Reduction: Acupuncture promotes relaxation, reducing the physical impact of stress on the body.
Naturopathic medicine supports hypermobility management by addressing inflammation and improving overall health.
- Nutritional Counseling: Recommending anti-inflammatory diets and supplements like collagen to support connective tissue health.
- Herbal Remedies: Using natural remedies to reduce pain and inflammation.
Benefits of Rehabilitation for Hypermobility
• Improved Joint Stability: Strengthening surrounding muscles helps stabilize joints, reducing the risk of injuries.
• Reduced Pain: Addressing muscle imbalances and compensatory patterns alleviates chronic discomfort.
• Enhanced Function: Rehabilitation restores normal movement patterns, allowing for greater physical activity.
• Lower Risk of Long-Term Issues: Proper management reduces the likelihood of joint degeneration and chronic pain.
• Improved Quality of Life: With less pain and greater mobility, individuals can enjoy a more active lifestyle.
Why Choose ActiveCare Physiotherapy & Rehab?
• Expert Team: Our multidisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive care tailored to your needs.
• Personalized Plans: Each rehabilitation program is designed based on the individual’s symptoms, goals, and lifestyle.
• Proven Techniques: We use evidence-based modalities to achieve the best outcomes for our patients.
• Holistic Care: By combining physiotherapy with complementary treatments like massage therapy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, and naturopathy, we address all aspects of your health.
Start Your Recovery Today
If you’re struggling with hypermobility, don’t wait to seek help. Contact ActiveCare Physiotherapy & Rehab today to schedule a consultation and begin your journey to improved function and a pain-free life. Let us help you build strength, stability, and confidence in your movement.