Managing Children with Hypermobility

Hypermobility in children is often overlooked, but it can lead to joint instability, pain, and difficulties with movement. Whether a child has benign joint hypermobility syndrome (BJHS) or a connective tissue disorder like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS), proper management is crucial to prevent long-term issues. At Epoch Health, our evidence-based chiropractic care focuses on improving joint stability, reducing pain, and enhancing function without overloading vulnerable joints.

What is Hypermobility?

Hypermobility refers to joints that move beyond their normal range due to loose ligaments and connective tissues. While some children experience no symptoms, others may suffer from:

• Frequent joint pain or discomfort (especially after activity)

• Fatigue due to inefficient muscle activation

• Poor coordination and balance, leading to clumsiness or frequent falls

• Increased injury risk (e.g., sprains, dislocations, or joint instability)

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

A gentle, functional approach is essential when managing hypermobility in children. At Epoch Health, we prioritise stability, strength, and pain relief over aggressive joint manipulations. Here’s how we can help:

1. Joint Stability & Strengthening

Children with hypermobility often rely on their ligaments instead of muscles for stability, leading to joint strain and fatigue. We use:

• Core stability exercises to strengthen deep muscles supporting the spine and limbs

• Closed-chain exercises like squats and lunges to build joint control

• Avoidance of overstretching, as excessive flexibility can worsen instability

2. Proprioceptive & Balance Training

Hypermobility often affects proprioception—the body's ability to sense joint position. We improve this through:

• Balance drills (e.g., standing on one leg, wobble board exercises)

• Functional movement patterns to enhance coordination

• Kinesiology taping to provide sensory feedback and joint support

3. Soft Tissue Therapy & Pain Management

Muscle tightness develops as a compensation for weak joints. Our chiropractic care includes:

• Massage therapy and trigger point release to ease muscle overuse

• Gentle mobilisation (not high-velocity adjustments) for pain relief

• Bracing or taping techniques to provide joint support when needed

4. Postural Awareness & Ergonomic Advice

Poor posture can worsen pain and fatigue in hypermobile children. We assess:

• Sitting and sleeping positions to reduce unnecessary strain

• Backpack and desk ergonomics to prevent postural compensation

• Gait analysis to address foot pronation or knee hyperextension

5. Activity Modification & Education

Choosing the right activities is crucial for children with hypermobility. We recommend:

• Low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, and light strength training

• Avoiding high-risk activities (e.g., trampolining, gymnastics, ballet)

• Energy conservation strategies to prevent fatigue and overuse injuries

When to Seek Help

If your child frequently complains of joint pain, experiences frequent injuries, or struggles with coordination, an assessment with an evidence-based chiropractor can help. Early intervention can prevent chronic pain and functional limitations in adulthood.

At Epoch Health, we take a comprehensive and individualised approach to help children with hypermobility build strength, stability, and confidence in movement. If your child is struggling with hypermobility-related issues, book an appointment today and let us support their journey to better health!