What is Hypermobility
Treating hypermobility is a life-long quest for many sufferers. But what is it?
It describes a situation where one (or more) joints stretch beyond their normal range. Thankfully, many people with hypermobile joints don’t have problems. And often, they don’t require treatment. In fact, some ballet dancers and gymnasts may benefit from increased flexibility.
However, others are not so lucky. Hypermobility syndrome is often accompanied by a range of different symptoms. These include pain and stiffness in the joints and muscles. They may also include joints that click or dislocate easily.
Fatigue and recurrent injuries such as sprains can be a problem. Not to mention, digestive problems, such as constipation and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Other issues can include dizziness and fainting. And sometimes thin or stretchy skin.
Treating hypermobility
More about Hypermobility
The joints most commonly affected are the knees, shoulders, elbows, wrists, fingers. It can be due to several causes but is often genetic. Often due to changes in collagen. The collagen becomes weaker. This, in turn, makes the ligaments in the body looser and stretchier.
What contributes to hypermobility?
Irrespective of the cause there are four factors that contribute to joint hypermobility. These are:
- The structure of your collagen – this is key in all cases
- The shape of the ends of your bones – this affects how the bone interacts at joints.
- Muscle tone – particularly in some children
- Your sense of your joint movements (proprioception)
Treating hypermobility
It is important to emphasize that the goal is to treat the condition. We are not implying that there is a cure. There isn’t a known cure for hypermobility.
However, you should look to improve muscle strength to help protect your joints. And at the same time, you will want to relieve some of the pain and discomfort.
Things that can help with treating hypermobility
There are a few measures you can take to make life a bit easier.
- It is good to exercise. But bear in mind that low impact activities such as cycling or swimming are less risky.
- Try and eat a healthy diet. And vitally, look to control your weight. This puts less burden on your joints.
- Investigate footwear that can aid good posture and support your ankles
Furthermore, there is a range of specialists that can help. Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, and Podiatry can all come in useful.
But so can massage therapy. Here’s how.
How massage helps
Carefully applied massage in the hands of a qualified professional can; –
- Help to soothe sore muscles without putting pressure on joints
- Aid the release of endorphins which can help with pain relief
- Help to alleviate pain from trigger points with methods such as myofascial release
- Be beneficial in aiding more restful sleep
- Help to replenish connective tissue
Of course, this is only a snapshot of how it may help. To experience the benefits firsthand, or to find out in more detail how it helps, contact us. Our experienced team will be more than happy to help you.
We hope this information is useful. If you need advice or have any questions about our treatments, please contact us. You can find us in Mill Hill Broadway and Islington. We are always happy to help!
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