Joint hypermobility syndrome

Last Updated: July 3, 2026

Key Points

Very flexible or "double-jointed" joints
Often affects children and young people
Symptoms may improve with age
No cure, but management helps

Overview

Joint hypermobility syndrome is a condition where your joints are unusually flexible, often referred to as being "double-jointed." This happens because the ligaments that support your joints are weaker than usual. The weakness is due to a difference in the collagen, a key protein that strengthens these ligaments. This condition is believed to be part of a broader group of hypermobility disorders, including Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. It tends to run in families and cannot be prevented from developing. While there's no cure, the main approach to managing the syndrome involves strengthening muscles around the joints. This helps to provide better support and protection, reducing pain and the risk of dislocations.

Signs and Symptoms

Frequent tiredness
Joint or muscle pain and stiffness
Recurring sprains and strains
Frequent joint dislocations
Poor balance or coordination
Thin, stretchy skin
Bladder or bowel problems
Some people have no symptoms

Things That Increase the Risk

Family history (runs in families)
Weak ligaments due to collagen differences
Being a child or young person

Diagnosis

GP assessment of joint flexibility
Beighton scoring system test
Blood tests to rule out other conditions
X-rays to rule out other conditions

Treatment & Management

Improving muscle strength and fitness
Physiotherapy for specialist advice
Occupational therapy for daily activities
Podiatry for foot and ankle support
Painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen
Warm baths or hot water bottles for pain
Heat-rub creams for joint pain
Referral to a pain clinic for severe pain

Prevention

Engage in gentle, low-impact exercise
Maintain a healthy weight
Wear supportive shoes
Use special insoles if recommended
Avoid overextending joints
Take regular breaks from repetitive activities

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Joint hypermobility syndrome: