Joint hypermobility, often referred to as being “double-jointed,” means that your joints have a greater range of movement than most people’s. While this can sometimes be an advantage, for many, it can lead to increased pain, instability, fatigue, and a range of associated symptoms known collectively as Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD) or Hypermobility Syndrome (HMS), including Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS/EDS). At Physio Fitness, our expert physiotherapists North London, specialise in managing hypermobility, providing personalised strategies to improve stability, reduce pain, and enhance your overall quality of life.
We understand the unique challenges faced by individuals with hypermobility, from persistent aches and recurrent injuries to widespread fatigue. Our holistic approach focuses on empowering you with the knowledge and tools to manage your condition effectively, build resilience, and participate more comfortably in daily activities and exercise.
Our greatest asset is our team of dedicated and highly skilled physiotherapists. Each member of the Physio Fitness family is passionate about helping you achieve your health goals, bringing a wealth of experience, specialised knowledge, and a compassionate approach to every session. All of our physiotherapists are fully qualified, HCPC registered, and committed to ongoing professional development to ensure you receive the most effective, evidence-based care.
Hypermobility occurs when the connective tissues supporting your joints (ligaments, tendons, and joint capsules) are more elastic than typical. While some people are hypermobile without symptoms, others develop a syndrome where this flexibility leads to:
Joint Pain: Often widespread, chronic, and varying in intensity.
Joint Instability: Feeling like joints “give way” or are prone to subluxation (partial dislocation) or full dislocation.
Fatigue: Often significant and disproportionate to activity levels.
Proprioception Issues: Difficulty knowing where your body is in space, leading to clumsiness.
Poor Posture: Muscles working harder to maintain stability.
Associated Conditions: Including autonomic dysfunction (e.g., PoTS), gut issues, anxiety, and skin fragility (more common in EDS types).
Our comprehensive Hypermobility Management programmes are highly individualised, focusing on stability, strength, and symptom control:
Detailed Assessment: A thorough evaluation of your joint hypermobility, pain patterns, muscle strength, proprioception, posture, and functional limitations.
Stability & Proprioception Training: Crucial exercises to teach your body to better sense joint position and activate muscles for stability before excessive movement occurs.
Targeted Strengthening Exercises: Focusing on building strength in the muscles around hypermobile joints to provide essential support and reduce instability. This often includes core stability and specific global muscle strengthening.
Movement Control & Awareness: Learning to move within your stable range, avoiding excessive movements that can lead to pain or injury.
Pain Management Strategies: Utilising gentle manual therapy, Electrotherapy (including TENS), and education on pain science to help reduce and manage discomfort.
Fatigue Management: Advice and strategies for pacing activities, conserving energy, and optimising daily routines.
Postural Correction & Ergonomic Advice: Guidance on maintaining optimal posture during daily activities, work, and sleep to reduce strain.
Functional Rehabilitation: Gradually building confidence and capacity for daily tasks, hobbies, and exercise, with emphasis on safe, controlled movements.
Education & Self-Management: Empowering you with a deep understanding of your condition, joint protection strategies, and a personalised home exercise programme for long-term self-care.
Integrated Care: For more complex presentations, we can liaise with your GP or other specialists (rheumatologists, geneticists) to ensure a holistic approach.
