When we hear the word ‘Hypermobility’ what often comes to mind is impressive flexibility. There’s a chance you’re now picturing that person who can bend their elbows excessively in the wrong direction- a party trick some may say! Yes, some people are naturally more flexible but it’s not always a special skill acquired by a select few. Unfortunately, it can be an indication of conditions causing pain and additional debilitating symptoms.
Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS) are some of those conditions; 13 to be exact. They are genetic conditions that affect the bodies’ ability to form collagen a key substance of our connective tissue. Connective tissue has many roles including connecting or separating other tissues/organs like skin, muscles and joints. Think of it like the ‘glue’. When this ‘glue’ is faulty, it can cause a wide range of problems and subsequent symptoms.
What is hypermobility?
By definition, hypermobility is where ‘some or all of a person’s joints have an unusually large range of movement.’ Those naturally bendy individuals, without any serious symptoms, may fall under the category of hypermobile or more specifically ‘Benign Joint Hypermobility’.
However, it can be associated with symptoms such as;
- Joint or muscle pain and stiffness
- Recurring sprains and/or strains
- Frequent ‘popping’ of joints
- poor balance or co-ordination
In cases where these symptoms are evident, it is likely to be a part of wider condition such as EDS or Hypermobility syndrome.
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) vs Hypermobility – what’s the difference?
As we have established above, hypermobility is present in those with EDS but they are likely to have additional symptoms. This is because collagen occurs all throughout the body and can affect many systems at the same time.
This can present in the body as;
- Chronic pain
- Constant fatigue
- Bladder or bowel problems
- Stretchy/thin skin
- Palpitations
Diagnosis
This can be challenging as a lot of symptoms are not visible. Often people can struggle to be taken seriously due to this. They can also be misdiagnosed with conditions such as fibromyalgia, ME/chronic fatigue syndrome and IBS. Nonetheless, an official diagnosis is important as EDS’s are inherited via genetics, which is important medical history to be aware of. If you suspect EDS, it may be helpful recommending the GP tool kit to your GP during a consultation (See Below in References) or a referral to Rheumatology.
Managing Hyper Mobility or EDS
A combination of treatment and self-management is required to cope with the chronic symptoms. Treatment can be multifactorial due to the broad range of symptoms that can occur. It could include interventions such as; medication, physiotherapy, mobility aids and splints. In rare cases, orthopaedic surgeries might be considered. However, results can vary so conservative treatment is preferred.
Self-management will include changes to lifestyle such as;
- Nutrition
- Pacing
- Sleep hygiene
- Exercise
If you suspect you have Hypermobility/EDS or if you are living with the condition, please see the references below for additional information and education. Also, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us – you deserve to be heard and supported. We are here to help!
References and Support
Joint hypermobility | NHS inform https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/muscle-bone-and-joints/conditions-that-can-affect-multiple-parts-of-the-body/joint-hypermobility/#:~:text=Joint%20hypermobility%20means%20that%20some,joints%20or%20being%20double%2Djointed.
What is EDS? https://www.ehlers-danlos.org/what-is-eds/
Joint hypermobility syndrome – NHS https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/joint-hypermobility-syndrome/
