Hypermobility
Hypermobility, also known as being double-jointed, is common in childhood and has both advantages and disadvantages:
Advantage: It leads to increased suppleness and agility, which is useful in sport. Many sportsmen and women are hypermobile and they too may experience pain after matches or prolonged training.
Disadvantage: It may result in joint pain including knees, ankles, feet, hips, back, shoulders and hands.
What causes the pain?
Pain from hypermobility often occurs:
- In the afternoon or towards the end of the day and may continue to the following morning
- After prolonged or increased levels of exercise, such as a long walk or shopping trip
The exact cause is not known, but it is thought that there are several factors:
- The joint may overstretch and not have the muscle strength to support it adequately.
- Hypermobility results in imbalances between muscle groups which may pull the joint awkwardly
- Imbalances may arise from poor bone alignment such as flat feet and knock knees, which put extra stress on some joints.
The pain is not the result of inflammation or a sign of joint or bone damage. Moreover the pain from hypermobility is not a warning sign of future damage.
What can I do to help a child with hypermobility?
There are many simple ways to help a child with hypermobility:
- Buy good firm shoes
If the child has flat feet, ensure their arches are supported. This will stabilise the foot and avoid extra pressures through the knee, hip and back.
- Pace rather than reduce activity
Do not let the child overdo activity too often. We appreciate this is often easier said than done.
- Encourage non-weight bearing activities
Activities such as cycling and swimming work the muscles to make them stronger and fitter without putting extra stress on the joints.
- Ease discomfit or stiffness
Try one or more of the following:
- Hot or cold compresses
- A warm bath
- Gentle rubbing of the affected joint with a soft towel
- Use of simple medication such as ibuprofen or paracetamol
A physiotherapist may also be able to recommend exercises to do at home.