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Hypermobile joints - Treatment

Alternative Names

Joint hypermobility; Loose joints

Home Care:

There is no specific care for this condition. In many cases, 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 specific recommendations.

Call your health care provider if:

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

What to expect at your health care provider's office:

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.

  • Reviewed last on: 11/30/2008
  • 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.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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