Hypermobility Conditions
Do you have a hypermobile body?
Have you struggled with exercising and joint hypermobility in the past?
Would you like to work with a trained coach who understands this condition from both a professional and personal perspective?
Hypermobility &
Related Conditions
Hypermobility means that a person's joints have a greater range of motion than is expected or normal.
For some people with Hypermobility this is not a problem, and for some it can even be an advantage, like gymnasts or dancers. Hypemobility that does not cause pain or any other symptoms is referred to as 'asymtomatic joint hypermobility'.
However for some people, their joints are not only hypermobile but also unstable and this can cause chronic pain and fatigue and interfere with daily living activities.
Hypermobility can be a trait in some individuals or a symptom of connective tissue medical conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.
As a professional movement therapist and an individual with EDS, I know first hand how challenging exercising with hypermobility can be, but I also know and appreciate just how vital it is for helping to manage symptoms too.
Exercising with Hypermobility
Performing different types of physical activities is hugely beneficial for everyone and for those with hypermobility or a connective tissue disorder like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome or Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder, it really can help improve symptoms, improve functional ability and capacity for movement.
Focusing on activities that build strength not only improves the function of the muscles around the joints but the tendons and ligaments too, helping to improve overall joint function and reduce injury risk.
Activities that focus on flexibility and mobility may sound counter intuitive but despite someone being hypermobile, stiffness is often a common symptom. The overworking of muscles can contribute to tiredness so incorporating activities that focus on mobility and flexibility can help to improve tissue flexibility and reduce fatigue.
Proprioception is the body's ability to navigate and co-ordinate where its limbs are in 'space'. For those with hypermobility, proprioception is often an issue and impaired joint position and awareness of that can cause joints to sublax or slip out of place. Working on core control and balance helps to improve proprioception and stability which helps to increase awareness and improve joint position and co-ordination.
A gentle approach to activity and the activities utilised is important, a base line should always be established and fatigue levels monitored.
Individual Plans
Each individual with hypermobility or EDS will have different needs and concerns for movement. Therefore it is important to find a coach that understands the condition, and can take into account all your individual requirements.
Building a plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals is paramount.
If you would like my help to ascertain the most appropriate approach for you, please get in touch.
