Hypermobility: Is it possible to be too flexible?

Does your child seem more “bendy” than usual? Maybe they can reach to their toes and beyond?

Hypermobility is when your child can move some, or all, of their joints much more than most people are able to. Also known as excessive joint laxity, this condition is not a medical concern and in most cases, it presents as an advantage in sports and music.

Hypermobility is a common condition in children because their connective tissues are not fully developed. It typically affects:

  • Knees
  • Shoulders
  • Elbows
  • Wrists
  • Fingers

Most children will lose this extra flexibility as they age, but some may find that stiffness or even pain starts to occur in the affected joints. When unpleasant symptoms start to present, we call it hypermobility syndrome.

What are the signs of hypermobility?

  • Extreme flexibility
  • Struggles with fine motor skills, especially handwriting.
  • Poor posture
  • Flat feet
  • Limb or back pain
  • Unusual walking or running technique
  • Child always wants to be carried.

Challenges for hypermobile children

  1. Excessive movement
  2. Poor alignment
  3. Fatigue
  4. Sore muscles
  5. Joint Pain
  6. Poor concentration

Who is most at risk of being hypermobile?

Children with Autism, Down Syndrome, Prader Willi Syndrome, Kabuki Syndrome, Ehler-Danlos Syndrome, Marfan Syndrome and other underlying physical conditions are typically most at risk of hypermobile joints.

Wondering if your child is struggling with hypermobility? Or maybe they live with another condition that could impact their joint mobility? Get answers & a personalised treatment plan from our experienced team.

Book your consult today!

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