Hypermobile joints

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Hypermobile joints

Joint hypermobility; Loose joints; Hypermobility syndrome

There is no specific care for this condition. Persons with hypermobile joints have an increased risk for joint dislocation and other problems.

Extra care may be needed to protect the joints. Ask your health care provider for recommendations.

Call your health care provider if:

• A joint suddenly appears misshapen
• An arm or leg suddenly does not move properly
• Pain occurs when moving a joint
• The ability to move a joint suddenly changes or decreases

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Hypermobile joints often accompany other symptoms that, taken together, define a specific syndrome or condition. A diagnosis is based on a family history, medical history, and a complete physical exam.

Medical history questions that help document hypermobile joints in detail may include:

• When did you first notice the problem?
• Is it getting worse or more noticeable?
• Are there any other symptoms, such as swelling or redness around the joint?
• Is there any history of joint dislocation, difficulty walking, or difficulty using the arms?

The physical exam will include detailed examination of the muscles and skeleton. The joints may be moved to determine the direction and extent of mobility.

Further tests will depend on what condition is suspected.

Review Date: 11/12/2010
Reviewed By: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).