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Hypermobile Spectrum Disorders
Hypermobile spectrum disorders, also known as joint hypermobile syndromes or Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS), are a group of genetic connective tissue disorders that affect the joints, ligaments, and other connective tissues in the body. These disorders are characterized by excessive joint mobility, often beyond the normal range of motion. At Aspen Integrative Medical Center, Dr. Alexandra Mele specializes in determining if your hypermobile spectrum disorder is congenital, acquired, and/or which epigenetic factors activated your condition. Determining the underlying causes and pathological changes is the first step in treatment management.
Frequently Asked Questions
The primary feature of hypermobile spectrum disorders is joint hypermobility, which refers to joints that can move beyond their normal limits. This increased flexibility can affect multiple joints throughout the body, including the fingers, wrists, elbows, shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles. Some individuals with hypermobile spectrum disorders may also have joints that are prone to dislocation or subluxation (partial dislocation).
In addition to joint hypermobility, individuals with hypermobile spectrum disorders may experience various symptoms and complications, which can vary in severity. These may include:
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- Joint pain: Frequent joint pain, stiffness, and muscle aches are common symptoms.
- Joint instability: Joints may feel unstable or “give way” easily, leading to recurrent injuries or dislocations.
- Soft tissue injuries: Increased joint flexibility can put stress on the supporting ligaments, tendons, and muscles, leading to sprains, strains, and other soft tissue injuries.
- Chronic fatigue: Many people experience persistent fatigue and low energy levels.
- Joint clicking or popping: Joints may make audible sounds during movement due to lax ligaments.
- Skin and tissue involvement: Some forms of hypermobile spectrum disorders can affect the skin, leading to features such as stretchy or fragile skin, easy bruising, and delayed wound healing.
- Gastrointestinal issues: Some individuals may experience digestive problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).
- Dysautonomia (aka autonomic dysfunction): In certain cases, hypermobile spectrum disorders can involve dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, leading to symptoms like dizziness, fainting, and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS).
Hypermobile spectrum disorders can present in numerous ways because they can influence almost every body system. Some atypical presentations include one or more of these symptoms:
- Fibromyalgia
- Chronic abdominal symptoms
- Hiatal hernia, acid reflux, IBS
- Postural symptoms
- Slow healing post injury and/or surgery
- Allergies
- Autoimmunity
- Poor fine motor skills
- Spontaneous bruising and delicate veins
- Developmental delay
- Mitral and aortic valve dysfunction
- Varicose veins
- Pelvic floor prolapse prior to having children
- Dental crowding and/or abnormal palate
- TMJ pain
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks
- Unexplained skin stretch marks
- Subcutaneous fat papules in the heels
- Difficulty with proprioception and/or balance
- Chiari malformation
- Tethered cord
- Scoliosis
It’s important to note that hypermobile disorders are a spectrum of conditions, ranging from mild joint hypermobility without significant symptoms to more severe forms associated with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive evaluation of medical history, physical examination, and sometimes genetic testing.
Dr. Mele frequently uses the Beighton Score, but there are limitations to this joint hypermobility assessment and should not be used exclusively to rule in or out a hypermobile spectrum disorder for you. It’s REALLY important for you to see a provider who specializes in these disorders such as Dr. Mele for a full assessment instead of trying to diagnose yourself.
Management of hypermobile spectrum disorders often includes a combination of strategies such as physical therapy to strengthen muscles and stabilize joints, pain management techniques, joint protection strategies, and lifestyle modifications. Additionally, healthcare professionals may provide guidance on managing specific symptoms and preventing complications.
Article linked below on the advantages and reasoning behind physical therapy for EDS and any hypermobile spectrum disorders.
The Importance of Physical Therapy for Hypermobility Syndrome
Aspen’s Dr. Alexandra Mele is a member of the Ehler’s Danlos Society and specializes in the treatment of hypermobile spectrum disorders, dysautonomia and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS).
