Joint hypermobility refers to the ability of a joint to move beyond a “normal” range of motion after considering age, gender and ethnicity. For some people, joint hypermobility may cause increased risk of injury and may be associated with other systemic conditions suggesting an underlying connective tissue syndrome. For others, it may not be a concern and may even be an asset in performing arts or sport.

 

Connective tissue syndromes are of concern due to the possibility of laxity and/or fragility in tendons, fascia, ligaments and bone related to impaired production or function of structural proteins such as collagen, fibrillin, and elastin. These conditions are known as Heritable Disorders of Connective Tissues (HDCT) with the most common being the hypermobile subtype of Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (hEDS).