Hypermobility Clinic

Joint hypermobility is the ability of a joint to move beyond its normal range of motion. It is common in children and typically decreases with age. In most cases, joint hypermobility causes no problems and requires no treatment. For some children, joint hypermobility allows “overstretching” the joints which causes musculoskeletal pain, particularly after exercise and physical activity. Sometimes, loose joints can lead to clumsiness, recurrent sprains/strains/dislocations, and osteoarthritis in the long term. Joint pain can also cause difficulties at school, sports, or everyday activities. Joint hypermobility increases the risk of developing amplified musculoskeletal pain, possibly due to chronic microtrauma.

The Nationwide Children’s Hospital Hypermobility Clinic is a multidisciplinary, family-centered clinic to evaluate and develop an individualized treatment plan to reduce joint pain and complications related to joint hypermobility. Our team consists of a rheumatology nurse practitioner, physical and occupational therapists, a psychologist and a social worker.