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Juvenile Hypermobility

What is juvenile hypermobility?

Juvenile hypermobility syndrome is a condition where a child’s joints move beyond the normal range of motion. Rarely, children may have a more widespread connective tissue disorder that is associated with hypermobility, such as Marfan syndrome, Down syndrome, and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Hypermobility may be associated with joint and muscle pain that worsens with activity and at night.

The number of affected joints varies, although the most commonly affected joints are the knees, elbows and fingers, along with the flattening of the arches of the feet. Children are generally more flexible than adults; however, those with hypermobility can flex and extend their joints beyond what is considered to be normal. The movement is done without much force or discomfort.

What are the symptoms of juvenile hypermobility?

Some children don’t have any symptoms, while others may have joint and muscle pains or mild joint swelling in the late afternoon, evening or after exercise. These pains and aches are common in the knees, elbows and calf, as well as in the thigh muscles. Pain normally occurs when the affected joints are used. Other symptoms may include:

• Flat feet
• Back pain
• Abdominal pains
• Chest pains
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Tiredness

Most children become less and less flexible as they grow, and their symptoms improve. However, rarely symptoms may persist. A few people are prone to recurrent injuries or dislocations.

What are the treatment options for juvenile hypermobility?

Hypermobility treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms and the impact they have on the child’s daily activities. If the condition is mild and has few symptoms, the child may not require any treatment. However, if treatment is required, Dr Ambaram may recommend pain medication to ease and relieve pain. More importantly, she may recommend a physiotherapist or a biokineticist.