From the Guidelines
Treatment for hypermobility syndrome should prioritize physical therapy to strengthen muscles around hypermobile joints and improve stability. This approach is crucial in managing symptoms and preventing complications. Although the provided evidence primarily focuses on idiopathic inflammatory myopathies, the principle of physical therapy in improving muscle function and reducing inflammation can be applied to hypermobility syndrome as well 1.
Key Components of Treatment
- Physical therapy: Emphasizing exercises that strengthen muscles around hypermobile joints to improve stability, with sessions recommended 2-3 times weekly for several months.
- Pain management: May include over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or NSAIDs, and for more severe pain, prescription medications such as muscle relaxants or low-dose amitriptyline.
- Lifestyle modifications: Essential modifications include avoiding joint hyperextension, using proper body mechanics, pacing activities to prevent fatigue, and maintaining a healthy weight to reduce joint stress.
- Regular, gentle exercise: Helps maintain muscle strength without excessive joint strain, with activities like swimming or cycling being beneficial.
Additional Support
Braces, splints, or kinesiology tape can provide additional joint support during activities, helping to prevent injuries and manage pain. The goal of treatment is to address the underlying joint instability while managing pain and preventing injuries, allowing most individuals with hypermobility syndrome to lead active lives with appropriate accommodations. Given the lack of direct evidence on hypermobility syndrome treatment in the provided studies, a comprehensive approach based on general principles of managing joint instability and pain is recommended, prioritizing physical therapy and lifestyle modifications 1.
From the Research
Hypermobility Syndrome Treatment
The treatment of hypermobility syndrome is a complex and multifaceted process, requiring a comprehensive approach that incorporates various medical, health, and fitness professionals. Some key aspects of treatment include:
- Education and lifestyle advice: Patients with hypermobility syndrome often require guidance on how to manage their condition and prevent further injury 2.
- Behaviour modification: Modifying behaviours and activities to reduce stress on joints and prevent injury is an important part of treatment 2, 3.
- Manual therapy: Techniques such as massage and joint mobilization can help to reduce pain and improve joint mobility 2, 3.
- Exercise prescription: A carefully designed exercise program can help to improve strength, flexibility, and proprioception, reducing the risk of injury and improving overall function 2, 4.
- Functional rehabilitation: A comprehensive rehabilitation program that addresses the patient's specific needs and goals can help to improve overall function and reduce disability 3, 4.
- Multidisciplinary treatment: A team-based approach that incorporates physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other disciplines can be effective in managing hypermobility syndrome 4, 5, 6.
Treatment Strategies
Some specific treatment strategies that have been shown to be effective in managing hypermobility syndrome include:
- Physical therapy: A physical therapy program that includes exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and proprioception can help to reduce pain and improve function 4, 5, 6.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy: This type of therapy can help patients to manage pain and improve coping skills 4.
- Assistive devices: The use of assistive devices such as orthoses and compressive garments can help to reduce pain and improve function 6.
- Surgical interventions: In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to address specific joint or musculoskeletal problems 6.
Individualized Treatment
It is essential to note that treatment for hypermobility syndrome should be individualized, taking into account the patient's specific needs and goals. A comprehensive assessment and evaluation are necessary to determine the most effective treatment approach 5, 6.