Hypermobility Syndrome PATIENT FACT SHEET (Pediatric)

Home , Hypermobility (joints), Soft tissue

Hypermobility syndrome is a condition where a Danlos syndrome. Children with Down syndrome often child’s joints move past the normal range of motion. are hypermobile. Girls tend to be hypermobile more Children with hypermobile joints often are called than boys. Hypermobility is present in children of “double-jointed” or “loose-jointed.” Hypermobile many ethnic groups and nationalities. Hypermobility children may have joint or muscle pain that worsens seems to run in families. A gene involved in production with activity or at night. Their joints are not inflamed. of collagen may play a role. Collagen is a protein CONDITION Rarely, children with hypermobility have a connective important for joint, ligament and tendon function. DESCRIPTION tissue disorder, such as Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-

Signs of hypermobility include the ability to lay palms impaired joint position sense, back pain and flat feet. flat on the floor with the knees straight; move elbows Some have chronic pain. Others have loose skin, increased or knees beyond straight; move the thumb to touch the bruising, thin scars and nerve compression disorders. forearm; or move the little fingers until perpendicular These children often have growing pains, or deep aches in to the upper arm. Hypermobility may cause chronic joint limbs and muscles. The diagnosis is based on a physical or muscle pain in some children. Joints may swell after exam that shows excess range of motion in certain joints. activity, or in late afternoon or at night. Hypermobile Some children need lab tests to rule out other genetic or SIGNS/ children are more prone to sprains, soft tissue injuries rheumatic diseases. SYMPTOMS and dislocation of the affected joints. They may have

Muscle aches and pains after activity may improve They can also prescribe exercises to build muscle with rest. Massage may ease growing pains in the strength and help stabilize the joints. Medications like muscles of the child’s legs, thighs or calves. Exercise, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen sodium (Aleve) or joint protection techniques to prevent injury, and balance acetaminophen (Tylenol) may ease occasional pain. Since improvement techniques may ease symptoms. Children hypermobility pain often happens in the evening, children with flat feet may need orthotics (orthopedic devices). can take these medications with a snack at night. Due COMMON Physical therapy can guide hypermobile children to have to the joint tolerance, many children may develop TREATMENTS proper posture, protect joints and improve balance. a chronic pain syndrome, such as pain amplification or fibromyalgia.

Some tips that may help manage symptoms or overuse. Children should stay physically active, eat a prevent joint injuries include good posture while balanced diet and maintain optimal weight. Parents can standing and sitting, standing with knees slightly adjust the child’s activity according to pain levels. Do bent, avoiding extreme ranges of motion and wearing not overuse over-the-counter NSAIDs or analgesics for good shoes with arch supports. Physical therapy and a joint pain. These medications should be used only for CARE/ daily exercise regimen can strengthen a child’s muscles occasional pain relief before or after activity or exercise. MANAGEMENT and stabilize joints. This may prevent injuries or joint TIPS

Updated March 2019 by Johnathan Hausmann, MD, and reviewed by the American College of Rheumatology © 2019 American College of Rheumatology Committee on Communications and Marketing. This information is provided for general education only. Individuals should consult a qualified health care provider for professional medical advice, diagnosis and treatment of a medical or health condition.