May start as a mild low back ache, aggravated by prolonged slumping. Often becomes more severe with pain on stretching and eventually severe muscle spasm may cause pain on simply being upright or on minor movement.

Hypermobility syndrome is a condition where numerous joints are capable of an unusually wide range of movement, commonly genetic (increased elastic quality of soft tissues) or associated with hormonal changes of pregnancy or the OCP. In some cases there can be a regional hypermobility compensating for a lack of anatomical movement.

Some people with hypermobile joints suffer pain that may caused by sprain of ligaments or often associated with compensatory muscle changes related to postural problems.

Diagnosis

Widespread hypermobile joints, with exaggerated spinal curves. Diagnosis of Hypermobility Syndrome is based on the Beighton scale which assesses the degree of hypermobility in 9 areas.

Back-in-Action Clinical Comment

Many clients presenting at our clinic with back pain when assessed are found to have signs of hypermobility. If chiropractic adjustments (manipulations) are used, they are only applied to areas of tight joints and the use of them are avoided in areas of increased mobility. We often find that treatment and self-help interventions to help improve posture such as strengthening, core stability and balance exercises, posture awareness exercise, foot orthotics and ergonomic advice are helpful. Occasionally arch supports for the feet and stabilising belts are useful. The general guidance for people with hypermobility is to maintain their flexibility without over stretching and to support the soft tissues nutritionally.