Hypermobility Disorders
Relief from hypermobility disorders in Papworth Everard, Cambridgeshire:​
For some individuals, joints can move beyond the normal range, known as hypermobility. While many people experience this without any issues, for others it can lead to pain, instability, and a higher risk of injury due to reduced joint control and altered movement patterns.
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Common symptoms may include joint and back pain, frequent dislocations or subluxations, and a tendency toward soft tissue injuries. These challenges can impact daily activities and overall wellbeing.
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Understanding hypermobility is key to managing its effects. Physiotherapy focuses on strengthening and stabilising the joints, improving control, and reducing strain on surrounding structures. With a targeted, personalised programme, hypermobility does not have to result in ongoing pain or instability, allowing you to move more confidently and stay active.
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Below is further information on the types of hypermobility disorders our expert team treats. Our dedicated team is committed to helping you move confidently from pain to peak performance.
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Please note: Elizabeth Watson-Rose has a special interest in hypermobility disorders and is currently doing a PhD relating to hypermobility and musculoskeletal conditions during and after pregnancy.
Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD)
At the core of Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD) is joint hypermobility - the ability for one or more joints to move beyond the normal range of motion, either actively or passively. While this flexibility may seem beneficial, it can often lead to instability, pain, and a wide range of associated symptoms.
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HSD is classified into four subtypes:
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Generalised HSD: Widespread joint hypermobility throughout the body, along with one or more related musculoskeletal issues.
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Peripheral HSD: Hypermobility limited to the hands and feet, accompanied by associated symptoms.
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Localised HSD: Hypermobility affecting a specific joint or group of joints, with related issues in that area.
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Historical HSD: A past history of joint hypermobility, alongside ongoing musculoskeletal symptoms.
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In addition to joint hypermobility, individuals with HSD may experience a wide range of symptoms, including:
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Recurrent injuries such as dislocations or subluxations.
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Chronic pain, often widespread or fibromyalgia-like.
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Reduced proprioception (joint awareness and control).
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Postural changes such as scoliosis or altered spinal curves.
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Flat feet or joint alignment differences.
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Fatigue and reduced exercise tolerance.
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Headaches or migraines.
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Sleep disturbances and insomnia.
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Gastrointestinal or pelvic health concerns.
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Increased nerve sensitivity (e.g. carpal tunnel or thoracic outlet symptoms).
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Associated conditions such as Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS).
Hypermobile Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (hEDS)
Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) is the most common type of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome - a group of genetic conditions that affect the body’s connective tissues. These tissues provide structure and support to joints, skin, and organs, and in hEDS they are more elastic and less stable than normal.
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Symptoms can vary widely from person to person, but commonly include:
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Generalised joint hypermobility: Joints move beyond the normal range, leading to instability, frequent clicking, and a higher risk of subluxations (partial dislocations) or full dislocations.
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Chronic pain: Persistent joint, muscle, and soft tissue pain that can range from mild to severe.
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Skin changes: Skin may feel soft or velvety and bruise easily, although this is typically less pronounced than in other forms of EDS.
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Associated conditions: Many individuals also experience fatigue, digestive issues, and autonomic symptoms such as dizziness or a rapid heart rate when standing.
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Unlike some other types of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, there is currently no genetic test for hEDS. Diagnosis is based on a detailed clinical assessment, including joint examinations, symptom history, and family background.
How Can Physiotherapy Help?
Physiotherapy plays a vital role in managing hypermobility disorders by focusing on building strength, improving joint awareness, and enhancing postural control. Rather than relying on naturally lax ligaments, treatment helps you develop the muscular support needed to stabilise your joints, reducing pain and lowering the risk of injury.
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Core Focus Areas
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Joint Stability: Targeting deep, stabilising muscles with controlled, high-repetition exercises to build endurance and protect joints throughout daily activities.
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Proprioception: Balance and coordination exercises to improve your body’s awareness of joint position, enhancing control and reducing instability, Clinical Pilates may also be indicated.
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Pain Management: A combination of gentle hands-on manual therapy mobilisations, massage, or acupuncture, pacing strategies, and, where appropriate, temporary joint support or taping to ease discomfort.
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Postural Re-education: Improving movement patterns and everyday posture to reduce strain and prevent compensatory habits.
Through personalised exercise programmes, education, and practical strategies, we help you build confidence in your body, supporting a more active, stable, and pain-free lifestyle.