Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD)

Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD) is usually generally characterized by joint hypermobility. HSD is usually diagnosed after a diagnosis of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome or other connective tissue diagnosis has been excluded, but it can present with equal severity to hypermobile EDS (hEDS). 

Hypermobility means that the joints move beyond the normal range. This can result in joint pain. In EDS, joints can be unstable and prone to dislocations and/or subluxations. 

Assessing hypermobility needs to be done by a qualified health professional, but the basic information can be found here https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/assessing-joint-hypermobility/ 

Hypermobility can occur as a stand–alone condition without EDS. It may be less severe and result in joint pain, but not dislocations. It can co-occur with other conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). 

Hypermobility and EDS are conditions which are very frequently poorly understood and poorly managed. We are very interested in EDS and hypermobility at Bodyfit Physio. We have facilitated a series of lectures to physiotherapists about hypermobility and connection between Melbourne health practitioners. We are learning and networking all the time.  

The Ehlers-Danlos Society website has a huge amount of useful information if you would like to read more  https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/ 

Issues that some people with Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD) / Hypermobility might want to address with physio include: 

• Joint protection strategies 
• Joint awareness 
• Pain management 
• Strength 
  • Core strength 
  • Specific strength 
  • Strength needed for functional / exercise / sports goals

Physiotherapy approaches that our clients with HSD / Hypermobility find useful: 

• Hands on treatment 
  • Can be very useful for dealing with muscle tension and muscle pain 
• Home management strategies 
  • Joint position awareness 
  • Joint protection strategies 
  • Exercise to build core and specific strength 
• Pilates 
  • We love Pilates as a therapeutic medium 
  • We will design a specific program for you 
  • Choice between ongoing individual sessions or joining a small group 
  • Work on  
    • Joint position awareness 
    • Joint protection strategies 
    • Core strength and specific strength 
    • Specific skills training / preparation 
    • Movement control 
    • Building functional capacity towards specific goals 
• Working towards joining into activity in the community, social learning or exercise-based activities 

It is not common for the  NDIS to fund physiotherapy services for people who have Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD). At Bodyfit Physio we would like to increase awareness of HDS. Other sources of funding to assist with the provision of physio can include Private Health Insurance or Medicare, under a GP Management Plan (previously known as EPC).

Telehealth provides the opportunity to access Physiotherapy services funded by the NDIS, Medicare or privately from anywhere in Australia. 

We look forward to helping you. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.  

Email: admin@bodyfitphysio.com.au 

Phone: 03 948123498  

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