Hypermobility
Joint hypermobility means that a person’s joints have a greater range of motion than average. Up to
20% of the population is hypermobile and for many people this does not cause any symptoms and
can even be an advantage in certain sports. However, for some people their hypermobility can be
very problematic, leading to joint pain and instability.
For those with conditions such as hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD) and Ehlers Danlos
Syndrome (EDS), these changes to connective tissue and hypermobility can also lead to other
symptoms such as fatigue, pain, gastrointestinal issues, autonomic dysfunction, headaches and
dizziness.
How can physiotherapy help?
- Pain management strategies including massage, taping, dry needling
- Fatigue management strategies
- Exercises to improve stability and control around the joint
- Management of injuries, dislocations and subluxations
- Finding ways to exercise that are beneficial and sustainable
- Assisting to manage co-morbid conditions such as POTS and fibromyalgia
Chronic illness
Many individuals live with chronic illnesses that are often invisible, but incredibly life altering. This
may include conditions such as fibromyalgia, ME/CFS, long COVID, POTS and inflammatory pain
conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.
How can physiotherapy help?
Education
- Helping people to better understand their condition and the science behind their
symptoms
Helping people to better understand their own triggers and patterns
Lifestyle strategies to manage symptoms such as lightheadedness/dizziness - Pain management
- Techniques to use at home
Hands on treatments such as massage and dry needling
- Understanding the science and various factors contributing to your pain
- Fatigue management
- Learning how to manage fatigue to prevent boom-bust cycles (pushing too hard and then crashing)
- Brainstorming ways to structure work, recreation and home life to better conserve energy
Guidance around exercise
- Movement can be an important part of managing these conditions. However,
exercising when you are dealing with pain and fatigue can feel overwhelming and
even impossible at times. - Physiotherapy can help you to find helpful ways to move and adaptations to manage
fatigue, pain and other symptoms such as dizziness