What Is Hypermobility? Understanding Joint Flexibility and When It Becomes a Problem

Some people can bend their thumbs to their forearms, do the splits without stretching, or twist their joints in ways that seem impossible. This extreme flexibility might seem like a party trick, but for many, it’s a sign of joint hypermobility—a condition where joints move beyond the typical range of motion.

While a flexible body can be a blessing for some athletes and dancers, hypermobility isn’t always harmless. For others, it can lead to pain, fatigue, instability, and recurring injuries. In some cases, it may even be a sign of an underlying connective tissue condition such as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS).

In this blog, we’ll break down what hypermobility is, when it becomes a problem, and how physiotherapy can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

What Is Hypermobility?

Hypermobility means that one or more joints move beyond the expected range. It’s often due to looser or more elastic ligaments, which are the tough bands of tissue that support and stabilise joints.

Joint flexibility exists on a spectrum. Some people are naturally more flexible due to genetics, while others may become more flexible through training. Hypermobility becomes more noticeable in individuals whose joints are naturally “lax” or who lack the muscular support needed to stabilise them.

Common Signs of Hypermobility

While it’s possible to have hypermobile joints without issues (this is known as benign joint hypermobility), others may experience more troublesome symptoms. Some of the common signs include:

• Frequent joint sprains, subluxations (partial dislocations), or full dislocations

• Aching or throbbing pain in joints and muscles, especially after activity

• Joint stiffness, particularly in the morning or after sitting still

• Poor balance or clumsiness

• Fatigue or low muscle tone

• Digestive issues or sensitivity to pressure

• Clicking or popping joints

Some people may also experience anxiety, dizziness, or issues with temperature regulation, which are often associated with Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD) or Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS).

When Does Flexibility Become a Problem?

Being able to move freely is a good thing—but when joints move too much without the support they need, problems can arise. The extra mobility can place strain on muscles, tendons, and ligaments, making them work harder to keep joints in place.

Over time, this can lead to:

• Chronic pain from overused or strained soft tissue

• Frequent injuries due to instability

• Poor posture and compensation from other muscles

• Fatigue, as the body works harder to maintain alignment

• Reduced confidence in movement due to fear of injury

If you notice any of these issues interfering with your day-to-day life, it’s worth talking to a physiotherapist who understands hypermobility and joint instability.

How Is Hypermobility Diagnosed?

A formal diagnosis is usually made by a healthcare professional using tools like the Beighton Score, which assesses joint range in various parts of the body. In cases where symptoms are more widespread or severe, further assessment may be needed to check for connective tissue conditions like hEDS (hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome).

However, even without a formal diagnosis, recognising the signs and seeking support early can prevent problems from getting worse.

How Physiotherapy Can Help

Physiotherapy plays an essential role in managing hypermobility. The goal isn’t to restrict movement but to build strength, stability, and body awareness so the joints are better supported.

Some of the ways physiotherapy can help include:

• Strengthening muscles around hypermobile joints to reduce strain

• Teaching movement control and joint stability through targeted exercises

• Addressing postural imbalances to prevent compensation injuries

• Developing a graded activity plan to avoid flare-ups or fatigue

• Guiding you through safe stretching and mobility routines that suit your body

Because hypermobility affects everyone differently, treatment is always individualised. Some may need help managing daily discomfort, while others may need support returning to sport or physical activity with confidence.

Practical Tips for Living with Hypermobility

Alongside physiotherapy, here are a few day-to-day strategies that can help manage symptoms:

• Avoid locking out your joints—keep a slight bend in elbows and knees

• Strengthen your core to support overall movement and posture

• Use supportive footwear to improve balance and alignment

• Pace yourself—break tasks into smaller steps to prevent fatigue

• Stay consistent with strength and control exercises

Final Thoughts

Hypermobility can be both a gift and a challenge. For some, it’s part of what makes them excel in dance, gymnastics, or yoga. For others, it can lead to aches, instability, and recurring injuries. The key is knowing when flexibility turns into dysfunction—and taking steps to support your body through strength, stability, and awareness.

If you suspect your flexibility might be causing more harm than good, our team at Belconnen Physiotherapy is here to help you move more confidently and comfortably.

Ready to feel stronger and more stable? Get in touch to book a session and learn how to support your joints for the long run.