Hypermobile joints

Alternative names:

joint hypermobility; loose joints

Definition:

Joints that move beyond their normal range with little effort.

Considerations:

Hypermobile joints occur in very few conditions. Limited joint motion is the most common result of disease processes. Hypermobile joints are capable of flexing and extending beyond normally observed limits for that particular joint. The movement is accomplished without undue force and without discomfort.

Common causes:

• Ehlers-Danlos syndrome
• Down syndrome
• Marfan's syndrome
• Morquio syndrome
• cleidocranial dysostosis

Note: There may be other causes of hypermobile joints. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as location, quality, time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for hypermobile joints, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.