The causes of hypermobility are family history: disorder is inherited, bone structure, muscle structure and sense of proprioception which is knowing how far you are able to stretch. Genes that are responsible for the production of collagen are suspected of playing a role. Children or young adults with this disorder usually have joint pain and occasional mild swelling in the late afternoon, at night, or after exercise activity. Other symptoms may include pain in the knees, fingers, hips, and elbows.
People with this disorder are able to place their hands on the floor without bending their knees, hyperextension of knees and elbows, and bending thumbs to touch the forearm.
Hypermobility syndrome is diagnosed by a physical examination which shows the range of excessive stretch of certain joints. The examination questions include:
1. Can you touch the floor with the palms of your hands without bending your knees?
2. Can your elbows go beyond straight?
3. Can your knees move beyond straight?
4. Can your thumb touch your forearm?
5. Can your pinky move perpendicular to the upper arm?
There is no blood test for hypermobility syndrome. Because it is inherited, it is not preventable. There is no long term consequences with hypermobility syndrome but can lead to degenerative cartilage and arthritis. The treatment for hypermobility is physical therapy, fitness exercise, and joint pain medication. The treatment is usually very effective for older patients. Hypermobile children tend to have less problems and the disorder usually goes away when get older.