Understanding Hypermobility and Its Impact on Hand Pain and Function

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As a hand therapist, I often see individuals experiencing persistent hand pain or functional issues without a clear cause. One common yet often overlooked contributor is hypermobility. Hypermobility refers to joints that move beyond the normal range of motion due to increased ligament laxity. While this may seem like a benefit in sports or dance, it can lead to significant issues—especially in the hands.
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Hypermobility can be localized or part of a broader condition like Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD) or Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS). These conditions are more common than many people realize and can be present in both children and adults. For hand function, hypermobility may lead to joint instability, frequent subluxations or dislocations, pain during repetitive or prolonged activities, and reduced grip strength. Tasks such as writing, typing, or even opening jars can become difficult or painful.

Diagnosing hypermobility

​Diagnosis involves clinical assessment using tools like the Beighton Score and a detailed history of joint symptoms. It’s important to rule out other causes of pain and understand whether hypermobility is contributing to the individual's presentation.

Managing injuries in hypermobile individuals

​When hypermobility is a factor, it changes how we manage injuries. Traditional approaches to hand injuries may not provide lasting relief if underlying joint instability is not addressed. Management must focus on joint protection, proprioceptive training, and muscle strengthening, rather than relying solely on rest or immobilization. In fact, over-reliance on splinting can sometimes worsen muscle deconditioning.

Strategies include tailored exercise programs to improve stability, education around activity modification, ergonomic support, and occasionally splinting during high-load activities. We also work closely with other professionals like rheumatologists or physiotherapists when systemic involvement is suspected.

If you or someone you know experiences frequent hand pain or "bendy" joints, it may be worth exploring whether hypermobility plays a role. Understanding this can lead to more effective, long-term solutions and help individuals regain confidence in their hand function.

As a sole trader hand therapist, I offer personalized care plans that consider each person’s unique joint profile—because effective rehabilitation starts with understanding the whole picture.

You can find a resource on Self-screening for hypermobility produced by Health connect here: https://hypermobility.smartersoft.io/hypermobility-test This is a great resource to help you start a conversation with your General Practitioner.
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