Introduction
Hypermobility is more common than many people realise. Some people simply call it being “double-jointed,” but for many, it can lead to pain, fatigue, instability, and recurring injuries. At Phoenix Physiotherapy Wendover, we regularly support patients living with hypermobility by helping them strengthen their bodies, reduce pain, and prevent long-term joint problems. Our team of experts work on regaining control,increasing muscle power, avoiding injury, and enabling you to move with confidence and without pain . If you or your child experiences frequent aches, clicking joints, or feels unusually flexible, or lack of stability, this blog will help you understand what’s happening and how physiotherapy can help.
What Is Hypermobility?
Hypermobility refers to joints that move beyond the normal range. It happens when the connective tissues—especially ligaments—are more flexible or stretchy than usual. Being hypermobile is not always a problem. Many dancers and gymnasts have naturally flexible joints, and it can even feel like an advantage. But for others, hypermobility leads to:
- Joint pain
- Muscle fatigue
- Poor balance
- Frequent sprains or strains
- Feeling unstable or “wobbly”
- Difficulty standing or sitting for long periods
If hypermobility affects daily life, it’s known as symptomatic hypermobility.
Common Signs & Symptoms of Hypermobility
People with hypermobility may experience:
- Aches or sharp pains in joints such as knees, elbows, ankles, and fingers
- Muscle tightness (especially in the neck, shoulders, and lower back)
- Recurrent injuries, including sprains and pulled muscles
- Poor posture due to weak stabilising muscles
- Clicking or popping joints
- Fatigue after normal activities
- Difficulty with balance or coordination
Children with hypermobility may appear clumsy or tire more quickly than others. If these symptoms sound familiar, physiotherapy can make a major difference.
What Factors Lead to Hypermobility?
Hypermobility may be:
1. Affected by genes / passed down by family – There are individuals who have naturally softer inborn connective tissue.
2. Due to weak stabilising muscles – When muscles can’t support the joints well, the joints move too far.
3. Dependent on posture and movement habits – Going with the flow of knees “locking back”, slouching, or dropping into joints can aggravate symptoms.
4. Seen in children more often – Ligaments are naturally more flexible during childhood.
The good news? With the right strengthening and control exercises, hypermobility can be well-managed.
How Physiotherapy Helps Manage Hypermobility
We at Phoenix Physiotherapy Wendover use a gentle, organized, and progressive method to provide relief to the patients through joint stabilization and reduction of pain. Physiotherapy can help in the following ways:
1. Building Strength in Key Support Muscles
Muscle weakness is the major problem that accompanies hypermobility. Physiotherapists concentrate on muscle strengthening:
- Core muscles
- Hip stabilisers
- Shoulder and scapular muscles
- Deep neck flexors
- Foot and ankle stabilisers
Muscles that are stronger = joints that are more stable = lesser pain.
2. Improving Joint Control & Stability
Hypermobility isn’t just about flexibility—it’s about control. Your physiotherapist will teach exercises that improve:
- Coordination
- Balance
- Joint awareness (proprioception)
- Safe movement patterns
These reduce the risk of sprains and injuries.
3. Posture Correction
If several individuals have hypermobile joints, they will most likely have different compensations, examples of which are:
Excessively extending the lumbar spine area
Going over the limit of the elbow or knee joint
While breathing heavily slouching
A physiotherapist teaches you less harmful postures that will not put so much.
4. Gentle Manual Therapy
Initially, hand-on therapy that is outside the main treatment may have a positive influence on the relief of:
- Muscle tightness
- Trigger points
- Tension headaches
- Discomfort in the lower back area
Such a condition of the body will make it possible to move more freely
5. Pain Management Strategies
Physiotherapy can help reduce pain with:
- Soft tissue release
- Taping to support unstable joints
- Heat therapy
- Advice on pacing and activity modifications
You’ll also learn safe stretches because many hypermobile people overstretch without realising it.
6. Long-Term Prevention
The aim is not just short-term relief it’s building lifelong strength and confidence. Your physio will support you with:
- A personalised exercise programme
- Tips for sitting, standing, and working without pain
- Movement retraining
- Gradual return to sports or fitness activities
With consistency, many patients experience fewer flare-ups and better overall stability.
When to See a Physiotherapist
You should seek help if hypermobility causes:
- Daily or frequent pain
- Recurring injuries
- Difficulty with work or school activities
- Poor posture
- Sports limitations
- Fatigue or muscle tightness
Getting early help can make a big difference. With the right physiotherapy, you can prevent the compensations that lead to ongoing joint strain, reduced stability, and increasing pain.
Conclusion
With appropriate assistance, the condition of hypermobility is something that can be handled. A physiotherapist will guide you through exercises that will make your body stronger, will help you stabilise your joints, alleviate pain, and will even increase your general well-being. Personalised treatment allows you to regain a sense of control over your daily movements. At Phoenix Physiotherapy Wendover, we offer personalised treatment plans for hypermobile adults, adolescents, and kids.
If you are experiencing old recurring pains, tiredness, or lack of stability, we are committed to leading you to a lifestyle that is stronger, better supported, and more physically active.
Book your assessment at Phoenix Physiotherapy Wendover and start your journey to stability, confidence, and pain-free movement.