Am I Hypermobile?

Hypermobility, often referred to as being “double jointed”, is an increase in the laxity of the tissues (muscles, ligaments, tendons, fascia) around the joints which leads to an increase in range of movement. 

 

Having too much range of movement, like having too little, isn’t always ideal and can lead to pain. 

 

A quick scale that I often use to assess joint hypermobility is the Beighton Score; a 9 point scale to assess hypermobility at specific joints 

For the movements that require assessment of both hands or legs, you get a point for each hand/leg. Although there’s no scoring system to define HOW hypermobile you are, it can give you an idea from observation when comparing person to person. 

 

As joint hypermobility is often caused by an increased laxity in tissues around a joint, this can lead to poor control of a joint. When concerned with joints that rely heavily on muscles for support, such as the shoulder, poor control, clicking and pain are common. Treatment would often include exercises to help strengthen the muscles around the joints to provide additional support and help control joint movement. 

 

If you think you may suffer from pain related to joint hypermobility, book in with one of our therapists today for a full assessment and treatment.