Hypermobility means some or all of a person's joints move further than normal. I came across with a few people who can bend their knee joints backwards, put their leg behind the head or push their thumbs to touch their forearms. Many people don't have any problems with it and some of them may benefit from it such as ballet dancers, musicians or gymnasts.
What are the symptoms of joint hypermobility?
- pain and stiffness in joints and muscles
- joints that come out of the correct position easily
- extreme tiredness
- repeated injuries such as strains and sprains
- digestive problems such as constipation
- stretchy or thin skin
What causes joint hypermobility?
- genetics: colagen (protein found in skin and ligaments)
- bone structure: shape of the ends of your bones
- muscle structure: muscle tone or strength
- injury: this can damage/stretch ligaments
What could I do about it?
Decreasing risk of complication you can try to do some exercise such as swimming and weight training. Yoga is good as well. It will help you to strengthen the muscles around the joints.
Also protection during physical activity by using padding or braces is useful.
