Physiotherapy Treatment and advice

Treatment may take the form of regular sessions, a block of treatment or monitoring. Treatment will be geared at improving muscle strength, agility, stamina, body awareness of the joint positions (proprioception) co-ordination skills and any other areas of difficulties.

All treatments are supplemented by a daily home programme which will be taught to the parents/carers/child. Advice will be given on how to protect the joints which may involve using orthotics and appropriate footwear as well as how to help with painful joints.

It is very important that children with hypermobility keep as fit as possible and that their muscles are kept strong. This will help to support the joints and decrease the risk of injury. Swimming is a great form of exercise but also carrying out activities in water such as quick walking or running is good.

Sports which involve sudden stopping and twisting such as in contact sports (rugby) are usually best avoided. It is also important to ensure that your child does not become overweight as their joints will then have to work harder and could be damaged more easily.

You should also discourage your child from showing off their ‘bendy joint’ tricks as it could damage their joints.

If you have any queries and would like to talk to our physiotherapists directly please call our office on 01895 835144 and we will be delighted to talk to you.