Understanding Benign Hypermobility Syndrome
Many children are naturally flexible, but when this flexibility causes joint pain, instability, or fatigue, it may indicate Benign Joint Hypermobility Syndrome (BJHS).
It’s called benign because it isn’t due to inflammation or damage—yet it can still affect a child’s comfort and coordination.
Common Signs and Symptoms
- Frequent joint pain, especially after activity
- “Clicking” or “giving way” of joints
- Knee, ankle, or wrist aches after sports or long walks
- Flat feet or easy bruising
- Tiring quickly or avoiding physical activity
Red Flags
- Persistent or night pain
- Swelling or redness (may indicate another condition)
- Recurrent dislocations or sprains
- Extreme flexibility combined with fatigue or dizziness (possible connective-tissue disorder)
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is clinical, using the Beighton score to measure joint flexibility.
Other causes such as arthritis or connective-tissue diseases must be ruled out.
Management
Physical Therapy
- Focus on muscle strengthening and joint-stabilizing exercises
- Encourage core strength and balance training
Lifestyle Measures
- Supportive footwear
- Warm-up before activity and avoid overstretching
- Adequate hydration, rest and optimum sleep
Pain Relief
- Occasional use of mild pain relievers as advised by a doctor
Hope Arthritis Foundation’s Message
Flexibility is wonderful—but pain is not normal. Our goal is to help families recognize when “double-jointedness” needs medical evaluation so children can stay active safely.