HYPERMOBILITY SYNDROME

SYMPTOMS

The symptoms of hypermobility syndrome can vary widely among affected individuals and may include:

• Joint Pain: Chronic or recurrent joint pain, particularly in the knees, elbows, shoulders, wrists, hips, or spine, is a common symptom of hypermobility syndrome.
• Joint Instability: Joint instability or a sensation of joints “giving way” may occur due to excessive joint laxity and reduced ligamentous support.
• Joint Dislocations: Frequent or recurrent joint dislocations or subluxations, particularly in weight-bearing joints such as the shoulders, knees, or hips, may occur in individuals with hypermobility syndrome.
• Muscle Weakness: Weakness or fatigue of the muscles surrounding hypermobile joints may contribute to symptoms of instability and reduced joint control.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Increased susceptibility to soft tissue injuries such as sprains, strains, tendonitis, and ligament injuries may occur due to joint hypermobility and instability.
• Chronic Fatigue: Fatigue or generalized musculoskeletal pain may occur as a result of compensatory muscle efforts to stabilize hypermobile joints.

DIAGNOSIS

Diagnosing hypermobility syndrome involves a comprehensive evaluation of clinical symptoms, joint flexibility, and functional limitations. Diagnostic criteria may include:

• Beighton Score: The Beighton score is a widely used tool to assess joint hypermobility based on specific maneuvers evaluating flexibility of the fingers, thumbs, elbows, knees, and trunk.
• Clinical Examination: A thorough physical examination is performed to assess joint flexibility, stability, and range of motion, as well as to evaluate for signs of joint hypermobility, instability, or complications such as joint dislocations or soft tissue injuries.
• Medical History: A detailed medical history is obtained to assess for symptoms such as joint pain, instability, previous injuries, family history of hypermobility or connective tissue disorders, and other relevant factors.
• Additional Investigations: In some cases, additional investigations such as imaging studies (X-rays, MRI) or genetic testing may be performed to evaluate for structural abnormalities, joint pathology, or underlying connective tissue disorders.

TREATMENT

Management of hypermobility syndrome focuses on relieving symptoms, improving joint stability, and enhancing overall function. Treatment strategies may include:

• Physical Therapy: Targeted exercise programs designed to strengthen muscles, improve joint stability, and enhance proprioception (awareness of joint position) can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of injuries.
• Joint Protection: Avoiding activities or movements that exacerbate joint pain or instability, using supportive braces or orthotics, and modifying daily activities to reduce joint stress can help protect hypermobile joints and prevent injuries.
• Pain Management: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), acetaminophen, or other pain medications may be used to alleviate joint pain and inflammation associated with hypermobility syndrome.
• Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapy interventions such as ergonomic modifications, assistive devices, and adaptive strategies can help individuals with hypermobility syndrome optimize functional independence and participation in daily activities.
• Psychological Support: Counseling or psychotherapy may be beneficial for individuals experiencing psychological distress, anxiety, or depression related to chronic pain, functional limitations, or social implications of hypermobility syndrome.