From the Research
Benign Joint Hypermobility Syndrome (BJHS) should be managed with a holistic approach, including physical therapy to strengthen muscles, gentle exercise, and pain management, as it can significantly improve quality of life and prevent complications, as suggested by the most recent study 1. The diagnosis of BJHS involves recognizing joint hypermobility as a significant contributing factor in patients presenting with musculoskeletal complaints, which can be challenging due to the lack of awareness of the condition 2. Key aspects of management include:
- Physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around affected joints, which helps provide stability and reduce the risk of injury
- Regular, gentle exercise such as swimming, cycling, or walking to maintain joint health without causing excessive strain
- Pain management with over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen (400-600mg every 6-8 hours as needed) for temporary relief
- Heat or cold therapy to alleviate discomfort
- Avoiding activities that cause pain or overextend joints
- Using supportive devices like braces or orthotics when necessary The condition is typically benign but can predispose individuals to joint pain, dislocations, and early osteoarthritis if not properly managed, highlighting the importance of proper management to improve quality of life and prevent complications 1. Additionally, studies have shown that spinal stabilization exercises can improve pain, trunk muscle endurance, and postural stability in women with BJHS 3, and proprioception exercises can decrease pain and improve functional status in patients with BJHS 4. Overall, a comprehensive approach to managing BJHS, incorporating physical therapy, gentle exercise, and pain management, can significantly improve outcomes for patients with this condition, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study 1.