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Alternative names Return to top
Joint hypermobility; Loose jointsDefinition Return to top
Hypermobile joints are joints that move beyond their normal range with little effort. The most common joints where this occurs are the elbows, wrists, fingers, and knees.Considerations Return to top
Hypermobile joints occur in some very rare medical conditions, but can also occur in otherwise healthy and normal children. Children generally tend to be more flexible than adults, but in those with hypermobile joints, they are capable of flexing and extending beyond normally observed limits for that particular joint. The movement is accomplished without undue force and without discomfort. These children also frequently have flat feet.Common Causes Return to top
Home Care Return to top
There is no specific care for the hypermobility. In many cases, people with hypermobile joints are at an increased risk for joint dislocation and other problems, so extra care may be needed to protect the joints. Consult your health care provider for specific recommendations.Call your health care provider if Return to top
What to expect at your health care provider's office Return to top
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 thorough physical evaluation.
Medical history questions that help document hypermobile joints in detail may include:
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |