Hyper-mobility is diagnosed more now than ever before. The most common type of hyper-mobility diagnosed these days, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), comes with a collection of issues that have historically been looked at as separate issues. This blog explores hyper-mobility, can hyper-mobility be cured, what the proper treatment is, and how to live with hyper-mobility.
What is Hyper-Mobility ?
Hyper-mobility is a condition in which a person’s joints are too loose, or double jointed as it is commonly known. It can affect any joint in the body, but is more common in the:
- Fingers
- Wrists
- Elbows
- Hips
- Knees
- Ankles
- Feet
- Shoulders
People with hypermobility often feel pain, stiffness, and decreased stability. This can lead to difficulty with everyday activities like walking, running, and lifting. In my office, I find that our hyper-mobile patients display a collapsed-unstable posture and dysfunctional movement patterns.
Can Hyper-Mobility Cause Pain & Affect Movement?
I mention in my last blog, “When it comes to hypermobility, what is often ignored is the impact on movement, posture, and joint health. Because the ligaments and structure of a hypermobile joint allow for excess movement, the following must be considered:
- Increased risk for joint dislocation
- Postural instability
- Dysfunctional movement
- Increased risk of musculoskeletal injury
- Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
- Pathological breathing patterns
- Lack of coordination and balance
Typically a hypermobile person visits different doctors for different issues and in our practice, we connect the dots! At that point, it becomes obvious that their hyper-mobility either adds to their problem or is the root cause of their issue(s).
The most logical and effective way to create stability in otherwise unstable joints of the hyper-mobile individual is through Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization and Postural Neurology. That is duplicating the methods with which the” helpless infant is able to become the strong, running toddler.”
Can Hyper-Mobility Be Cured?
There is no cure for hypermobility, however, there are treatments that can help alleviate the symptoms associated with the condition. The goal of most hyper-mobility treatments is to help strengthen weakened muscles, improve flexibility and range of motion, and reduce pain. This may also include things to improve balance, coordination, and overall function. Another important factor often skipped is lifestyle changes to help in managing hypermobility.
While there are braces and supports in an attempt to stabilize the joints of hypermobile individuals, some are in fact helpful while others are not.
What Does Hyper-Mobility Treatment Look Like?
Whether you see a chiropractor or physical therapist remember that no 2 providers are equal when it comes to the treatment provided. When seeking treatment I suggest looking for a provider that is trained in Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization and Postural Neurology although I have yet to come across another office that provides both like we do.
When it comes to the joints and movement in hypermobile individuals, the comprehensive treatment should include:
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Biological Breathing
This is not belly breathing or deep breathing, but breathing the we all have done as babies and what all babies across the globe do. This allows the optimized breathing apparatus to become a tool assisting in the foundation for stability in posture. Watch this video to learn how.
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Core and Full-Body Stabilization
This is accomplished using Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization; in short, DNS is based on the fact that all babies across the world go through the same stages of movement development without any training or coaching. This means that the best and most suitable way to rehab an unstable joint is the way we were programmed to go from a helpless infant to a running toddler.
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Postural Neurology
There is a map of all your body parts in the brain that dictate the progression of movement, a blueprint of a kind. This map changes, negatively or positively, based on many factors including lifestyle choices, habits, and trauma to name a few. For example, in the case of hyper-mobility, this map can be changed positively if exposed to positive stimulation by rehabilitating based on the common sense of DNS.
Postural Neurology is finding out what the status of the faculties designed to impact our balance and coordination is and through proper activation of the weak parts, reinstating the foundation to stability and coordination of function which are compromised in hypermobile individuals.
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Lifestyle Modifications
When it comes to hyper-mobility there are a few important things to watch out for. First, wearing braces at night to guard the accidental over-stretching of the joints such as wrists and ankles is helpful. Another thing is Sleeping on the stomach should be avoided at all times. If working behind a desk use an exercise ball as a chair to stimulate the brain. As for ergonomic modifications, it is important to pay close attention to the chair and keyboard size.
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