Hypermobility Syndrome
(Joint Hypermobility Syndrome)
Medical Author: William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR
What is the joint hypermobility syndrome?
The joint hypermobility syndrome is a condition that features joints that easily move beyond the normal range expected for a particular joint. The joint hypermobility syndrome is considered a benign condition.
It is estimated that 10%-15% of
normal children have hypermobile joints, or joints that can move
beyond the normal range of
motion. There is a tendency of the condition to run in
families (familial). It is felt that certain genes are inherited that predispose to the development of hypermobile joints. Genes that are responsible for the production of collagen, an important protein that helps to glue tissues together, are suspected of playing a role.
Joint hypermobility is also a feature of a rare, but more significant medical condition called
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome that is characterized by weakness of the connective tissues of the body. This condition is inherited in specific genes passed on by parents to their children.
What are the symptoms and signs of joint hypermobility?
Because the joints are capable of excessive motion in people with the joint hypermobility syndrome, they are susceptible to injury. Symptoms of the joint hypermobility syndrome include pains in the
knees, fingers, hips, and
elbows. There is a higher incidence of dislocation and sprains of
involved joints. Scoliosis
(curvature of the spine) occurs more frequently in people with hypermobile joints. Joint hypermobility tends to decrease with aging as we become naturally less flexible.
Signs of the syndrome are the ability to place the palms of the hands
on the floor with the knees
fully extended, hyperextension of the knee or elbow beyond 10
degrees, and the ability to touch the
thumb to the forearm.
How is hypermobility syndrome treated?
Often joint hypermobility causes no symptoms and requires no treatment. Many
individuals with joint hypermobility syndrome improve in
adulthood. Treatments are customized for each individual based on their particular manifestations. Joint pains can be
relieved by medications for pain or inflammation. Proper physical fitness exercise can strengthen muscles and stability, but the nature of the exercise should be designed to avoid injury to joints.
References:
Koopman, William, et al., eds. Clinical Primer of Rheumatology.
Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2003.
Ruddy, Shaun, et al., eds. Kelley's Textbook of Rheumatology.
Philadelphia: W B Saunders Co., 2000.
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Last Editorial Review: 9/26/2007
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