Paediatric Physiotherapy for Hypermobility and Connective Tissue Disorders
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What is Hypermobility?
Hypermobility, or excessive flexibility in the joints, is a common condition in children where the joints can move beyond their normal range. This increased flexibility is due to a problem with the connective tissues (the structures in the body that support and stabilize the joints, like ligaments and tendons). While hypermobility can be a harmless trait for many children, it may lead to significant challenges for others, including joint pain, instability, and a higher risk of injury. The condition occurs when these connective tissues are looser or more stretched than usual, resulting in joints that move too freely and may lack the necessary support. Hypermobility can range from affecting multiple joints (generalized hypermobility) to just a few (localized hypermobility). In some instances, it may be part of a broader condition like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, a connective tissue disorder.
Recognizing the Signs of Hypermobility in Your Child
Hypermobility, or excessive joint flexibility, can present a variety of signs and symptoms. Here’s what to watch for:
Joint Pain: Children may complain of joint pain, which might affect one or multiple joints and can happen without any obvious injury.
Fatigue: Kids with hypermobility often feel tired because their muscles work harder to compensate for unstable joints. This might make them seem less active or more easily fatigued.
Muscle Weakness: Weak muscles around hypermobile joints can lead to more pain and instability. Building strong muscles is essential to manage symptoms and prevent injuries.
Joint Instability: You might notice that your child’s joints feel unstable or “give way,” which can make them hesitant to move or participate in activities.
Skin Differences: In some cases, hypermobility can be linked with skin issues such as stretch marks, unusually soft or fragile skin, and poor wound healing.
Coordination Problems: Your child might seem clumsy or uncoordinated, with frequent unexplained bruises, especially on their legs.
If you notice these signs, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for guidance and support. Early intervention and tailored physiotherapy can make a significant difference in managing your child’s symptoms and improving their quality of life.
Complications of Hypermobility (Connective Tissue Disorders)
Hypermobility, or excessive joint flexibility, can lead to several complications. Children with this condition might experience joint pain and persistent fatigue as their muscles work harder to keep their joints stable. Muscle weakness and joint instability can increase the risk of injuries and may delay skills like crawling or walking. They might also face issues with partial dislocations and soft tissue injuries. Additionally, some children may show changes in their skin, coordination problems, and in rare cases, gastrointestinal issues (such as stomach problems or digestive discomfort). Emotional effects like anxiety and difficulties with sensory processing can also impact their daily life and activities.
How paediatric physiotherapy Supports Children with Hypermobility
Paediatric physiotherapy can be incredibly beneficial for children with hypermobility. By focusing on specific exercises and techniques, therapy helps strengthen the muscles around hypermobile joints, providing better support and stability. This can reduce pain and prevent injuries by ensuring that the joints are more stable during movement.
Therapists work on improving coordination and balance, which can help children feel more confident and less prone to accidents. They may also teach strategies for managing fatigue and adapting activities to avoid overexertion. Through tailored exercises, physical therapy can support the development of motor skills, helping children achieve milestones like walking and running at a pace that suits their needs.
Our Approach at Leaping Kids
At Leaping Kids, our approach to supporting children with hypermobility is rooted in personalized, compassionate care. We understand that every child’s needs are unique, and we tailor our physiotherapy services to address these individual requirements effectively.
Our dedicated team begins by conducting a thorough assessment of your child’s specific condition, including their joint flexibility, muscle strength, and overall coordination. This assessment helps us design a customized therapy plan that targets their unique challenges and goals.
We emphasize a holistic approach that combines strengthening exercises, balance training, and pain management strategies. Our physiotherapists work closely with your child to build their muscle strength and joint stability through engaging and age-appropriate exercises. We also focus on improving their coordination and balance to help them navigate daily activities with greater ease and confidence.
Our mobile physiotherapy services around Sydney ensure that we bring expert care directly to your home or school, offering convenience and consistency. We believe in working collaboratively with you to achieve the best possible outcomes for your child’s development and independence.
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