Having suffered with joint hypermobility myself over the years leading to multiple musculoskeletal injuries and dislocations, I chose to make treating people with joint hypermobility one of my specialist areas. I have written two research papers on this topic, firstly around its effect and prevalence and secondly discussing different treatment methods for patients with hypermobility for a variety of injuries. This has allowed me to implement various techniques from sports therapy, physiotherapy and osteopathy into my treatments. Many people aren’t aware that joint hypermobility is a condition that they may be suffering with, believing that they are just “double jointed” or that simply had good flexibility. Therefore, I’ve found that when treating patients suffering from joint hypermobility that education is often the key. For example, a key sign that someone could be hypermobile is noticing that they walk in a slight knee hyperextension, a movement that feels natural to them but for anyone else would feel like extending the knee beyond straight. Using these common signs, the 9 point Beighton Scale for hypermobility and a 5 point hypermobility questionnaire I have effectively diagnosed many patients with joint hypermobility that weren’t even aware what it was! By implementing manual techniques such as massage and mobilisations, the first step of treatment will always be to remove the pain, and secondly to address the joint hypermobility and how it is affecting you. I have designed specific exercise programs for patients aged 19-50 suffering with this condition, targeting specific muscles key for stabilising joints, including core muscles which are often neglected and weaker within the hypermobile population. Despite rheumatologists believing that joint hypermobility is one of the leading causes of musculoskeletal pain in adolescents, it is one of the more under-researched and under-diagnosed conditions considering how common it can be. If you feel you suffer from joint hypermobility or want anymore information feel free to book a session or contact me! Max Unwin MSc (MSST)