Understanding Hypermobility
Hypermobility is described as relative increased mobility to what is expected. It can occur at one joint, one movement or generalized to the whole body. This can occur as a compensation due to lack of movement at another joint, helping achieve the gross required movement. When joints are too mobile the instinctive response is that the surrounding muscles will tighten to try and stabilize the area. Overtime this can lead to reduced blood supply to the area and the build up of lactic acid.
Hypermobile individuals can have a higher risk in developing many conditions including back pain, knee pain and early development of osteoarthritis.
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How do I stop my hypermobile joints from causing pain?
Hypermobile patients can be treated effectively by Osteopaths. Treatment aims to restore movement to areas of reduced movement using specific manipulation, stretching and strengthening to restore normal joint movement patterns.
Postural awareness training and exercises such as Pilates and weight training could also be beneficial. With the aim to strengthen the muscles around the joint to help stabilize the area. The important thing is that exercise should be done regularly and often to achieve the desired benefits.
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More information
http://www.dynamicchiropractic.com/mpacms/dc/article.php?id=44423
http://www.arthritisresearchuk.org/arthritis-information/conditions/joint-hypermobility/treatments.aspx
