Joint hypermobility has traditionally been perceived as a lifelong, asymptomatic trait lacking clinical significance. However, contemporary insights now associate hypermobility with a diverse array of symptoms, leading to the identification of Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD), which encompasses conditions such as Ehlers-Danlos hypermobile type.
A considerable number of individuals have endured various seemingly unrelated symptoms, lacking recognition for a specific condition. It is now understood that many of these individuals have an underlying HSD, elucidating the origins of numerous perplexing symptoms. Approximately 20% of the population exhibits hypermobility, making it a potentially valuable clinical indicator. Unfortunately, these patients often encounter frustration as their condition is not well comprehended by many clinicians, resulting in them seeking medical attention as a last resort. The list of symptoms associated with HSD is surprisingly long and you see them every day.
Dr Ann Childers herself has HSD and now sees these people often in her clinic. She says that very, very frequently people are saying to her “I have pain all over. My body doesn’t work right, yet my tests and x-rays are normal. My psychiatrist says I’m anxious, depressed and have somatoform disorder. A family doctor says it’s just stress. I’m tired of being sick and tired. Can you help me?" Dr. Childers sheds light on the extensive spectrum of Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders, detailing her diagnostic approach and care for the increasing number of patients with HSD under her care.
