Joint hypermobility syndrome is a benign connective tissue disorder that is also known as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Hypermobility Type III. With this condition, joints have an abnormally wide range of motion, which can potentially cause pain, soft tissue injury or joint instability.
People with joint hypermobility symptoms often have unique abilities, including:
- The thumb can be moved down and back to contact the forearm.
- The little fingers can be extended back beyond 90 degrees.
- When standing, the knees have a bowing appearance from the side.
- When fully extended, the arms bend further than normal (beyond straight).
- The ability to place hands flat on floor with forward bending and straight knees.
Joint hypermobility syndrome is typically an inherited condition. Hypermobility is also called being double-jointed.
What Are the Symptoms of Joint Hypermobility Syndrome?
As a benign condition, many people with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Hypermobility Type III present no symptoms and require no treatment. In fact, some athletes like ballet dancers and gymnasts can actually benefit from the extra flexibility!
However, there are still instances where joint hypermobility syndrome can present bothersome symptoms like:
- Pain or stiffness in the joints
- Joints that easily dislocate
- Thin or stretchy skin
- Clicking joints
With joint hypermobility syndrome, there can also be a higher instance of joint dislocation and sprains. Conditions like scoliosis (a curvature of the spine) have a more common presence in people with hypermobile joints, which can lead to back pain.
How Is Joint Hypermobility Syndrome Treated?
If it’s becoming difficult to live with joint hypermobility syndrome, a combination of pain management, physical therapy and controlled exercises can help ease symptoms.
Because joint hypermobility syndrome can lead to an increased risk of injuries, managing the condition may also include treating short-term injuries. Fortunately, as we age and become less flexible, joint hypermobility tends to decrease.