Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders

What is Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders?

Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD) are a group of conditions involving joint hypermobility.

What causes Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders?

Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders are caused by an abnormality in the connective tissue. Connective tissue gives structure and support to all parts of the body.

What are the signs of Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders?

The symptoms of Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders are variable and generally involve the musculoskeletal system.

• Flexible joints
• Dislocations, subluxations, and soft tissue damage
• Chronic pain
• Abnormal proprioception (the body’s sense of where a body part is compared to other parts or space)
• Curvature of the spine
• Muscle weakness
• Additional problems not associated with the musculoskeletal system include: anxiety, orthostatic tachycardia, functional gastrointestinal disorders, pelvic and bladder dysfunction.

How is it diagnosed?

Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders are diagnosed by a health care clinician familiar with connective tissue disorders, as there is a lot of overlap of symptoms between EDS and other connective tissue disorders. The health care clinician evaluating your child will make a diagnosis based on your child’s symptoms, physical exam, and family history. There is no genetic testing available for hypermobility spectrum disorders.

How should I care for my child?

Children with hypermobility spectrum disorders often benefit from treatment of their symptoms. This may include the following as needed:

• Physical therapy is helpful to build strength in the muscles around the joints and stabilize the joints.
• Treatment of pain.
• Mental health evaluation and treatment.
• Orthopedics evaluation.

What else do I need to know?

For more information, refer to the Ehlers Danlos society website (https://www.ehlers-danlos.com) and link to HSDs page.

Questions?

This information is not specific to your child but provides general information. If you have any questions, please call your clinic.

Updated 10/19

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