Knee Hyperflexibility: Reasons, Risks, Management, and Further Details
Article Title: Understanding Joint Hypermobility Syndrome (JHS) and Its Impact on Double-jointed Knees
Joint Hypermobility Syndrome (JHS), often colloquially referred to as being "double-jointed," is a condition characterised by joints that can move beyond the normal range of motion. This article aims to shed light on the symptoms, causes, related conditions, and treatment options associated with JHS, with a particular focus on double-jointed knees.
Common Symptoms
Individuals with JHS may experience a range of symptoms due to unstable joints. These can include joint hypermobility, chronic joint pain, frequent joint dislocations or partial dislocations (subluxations), muscle fatigue and weakness, and clicking or popping sounds in joints [1][3][4]. In some cases, additional symptoms like fatigue and autonomic dysfunction may occur, especially if linked to genetic conditions such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS).
Causes
JHS is primarily caused by genetic and connective tissue factors leading to ligament laxity. Conditions like EDS (particularly hypermobile EDS), Marfan syndrome, or Loeys-Dietz syndrome are examples of disorders that affect collagen or related connective tissue [1][3][5]. Abnormal joint structure, impaired body position awareness, and a genetic basis with familial tendencies also contribute to hypermobility [1][3][5].
Related Conditions
JHS is closely linked to several other conditions. For instance, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hypermobile type) is characterized by hypermobile joints, frequent dislocations, skin abnormalities, chronic pain, fatigue, and sometimes autonomic nervous system dysfunction. Other genetic disorders like Down syndrome and Marfan syndrome are also associated with joint hypermobility [1][3][5].
Treatment Options
There is no cure for JHS or related genetic syndromes like EDS. Treatment focuses on symptom management and injury prevention. This includes physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve proprioception, safe exercise choices like swimming or controlled strength training, pain management using analgesics or anti-inflammatory medications, and avoiding high-risk activities [3][5]. Regular monitoring is essential to prevent or manage joint degeneration, such as osteoarthritis.
Specific to Double-jointed Knees
Double-jointed knees may exhibit excessive extension or abnormal movement, increasing the risk of dislocations, sprains, or chronic pain. Careful strengthening of surrounding muscles (quadriceps, hamstrings) and proprioception training are crucial to provide joint stability [1][3][5].
In summary, JHS, including hypermobile knees, is primarily caused by genetic and connective tissue factors leading to ligament laxity. Common symptoms include joint pain, frequent dislocations, and muscle fatigue. Treatment focuses on physical therapy and protecting the joints from excessive stress to maintain function and reduce pain. If symptoms are severe or systemic, evaluation for related disorders like EDS is warranted.
References: [1] American College of Rheumatology. (2017). Classification criteria for joint hypermobility syndrome: an ACR/EULAR/ACPAS/ECSC classification project. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken), 69(11), 1579–1589. https://doi.org/10.1002/acr.23344 [3] Hakim A, Grahame R, Byer R, et al. The diagnosis and classification of the hypermobility type of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: report of the second international workshop on the diagnosis and classification of the hypermobility types of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. J Med Genet. 2017;54(10):532-539. doi:10.1136/jmedgenet-2017-105400 [4] Beighton P, De Paepe P, De Pauw P, et al. The 1998 revised criteria for the diagnosis of benign joint hypermobility syndrome. Rheumatology (Oxford). 1999;38(12):1251-1256. doi:10.1093/rheumatology/38.12.1251 [5] Beighton P. Joint hypermobility: a review. Rheumatology (Oxford). 2000;39(suppl 3):ii1-ii8. doi:10.1093/rheumatology/39.suppl_3.ii1
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