NEWSLETTER Are Your Joints Hypermobile?
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Have you ever popped a joint just for the satisfaction of making your friends squirm? This elementary school talent actually has its roots in a medical condition: joint hypermobility. And while it is great for getting a scream on the playground, it can also lead to some unpleasant side effects. Joint hypermobility looks impressive, and for certain athletes, like gymnasts, the increased flexibility may even be a boon. However, many people with the condition struggle with pain or frequent soft tissue injuries. If you’re one of them, the certified hand therapists at Hands for Living can help! We have proven results in helping people with hypermobility find pain relief and improve their ability to use their upper body. Our therapists will assess your condition and recommend appropriate treatment, including orthoses and upper extremity strengthening exercises. Contact our clinic today to set up an appointment with one of our certified hand therapists! What is Joint Hypermobility? Hypermobility refers to an excessive range of motion across multiple joints. It typically runs in families and is thought
to be caused by genetic changes to the collagen in our body. Collagen is the main structural protein in skin and other connective tissues throughout the body (such as your muscles, tendons, cartilage, and ligaments). People with hypermobility likely have changes in their body’s collagen that make their joints looser and more flexible. While the extra flexibility can be quite impressive, hypermobility isn’t all fun and games. Many people with the condition may experience the following symptoms: • Pain and stiffness (especially at the end of the day and after physical activity)
• Clicking joints
• Lack of proprioception (ability to sense the position of a joint)
• Joint dislocations or subluxations (partial dislocations)
• Regular soft tissue injuries (i.e., sprains and strains)
• Poor coordination
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