Explaining Hypermobility to Parents, Without Freaking Them Out!

As an OT, you likely already know that hypermobility, often referred to in lay terms as being double-jointed, is a label we give to joints that can move beyond the typical range of motion. While it may seem harmless or even fascinating, it can lead to challenges and discomfort for some children. Learning how to explain this to parents without freaking them out is an essential part of working with kiddos who have these extra bendy joints. 

As a parent, learning about hypermobility can be overwhelming if no one else in the family has hypermobile joints. That is why it's crucial for us to carefully walk the fine line between too much and not enough information. The goal is to enable parents to support their child without creating unnecessary worry or anxiety. 

Approaching the Topic with Parents

When discussing hypermobility with parents, it's essential to strike a balance between providing information and reassurance without causing undue alarm. Here are some tips for effectively communicating about hypermobility:

1. Educate without alarming: Start by explaining what hypermobility is in simple terms, emphasising that it's a common condition and often not a cause for concern. Provide examples of everyday activities that may be affected by hypermobility, such as sports or handwriting, to help parents understand its potential implications.

2. Focus on strengths: While hypermobility can present challenges, it's also important to highlight the strengths and abilities of children with this condition. Encourage parents to celebrate their child's flexibility and adaptability, emphasising that many individuals with hypermobility lead active and fulfilling lives.

3. Emphasise the importance of support: While some children with hypermobility won't require medical intervention, supportive measures such as Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy, including the right strengthening exercises, ergonomic adjustments and equipment, can help manage symptoms and prevent complications. Encourage parents to work closely with healthcare professionals to develop a tailored management plan for their child.

4. Address concerns proactively: Anticipate and address any concerns or questions parents may have about hypermobility, such as its long-term implications or the potential need for specialised care. Provide resources and referrals to reputable sources of information, such as medical professionals or support groups, to empower parents to seek further guidance if needed. You can learn all about these topics in the soon-to-be-released Hypermobility for Paediatric Occupational Therapists.

Phrases you might use

(when talking to parents about your observations): 

⭐️ When I watch Sophie trying to fasten buttons, I can see that her thumbs bend back a long way - we call that joint hypermobility. Would it be OK if I had a look at some of her other joints to see if it is isolated to her thumbs?

⭐️ I can see that Mitch's elbows are quite bendy when he's trying to crawl. Sometimes, kids just have bendy elbows, but it would be good to check his other joints to see if they're a bit more bendy than we'd expect, in case it impacts his ability to do things he wants and needs to do. Is that OK? 

Questions you might need to answer:

Parent: "What is Hypermobility?"

Hypermobility is an observation we make when joints can move beyond the range we'd typically expect to see. This extra mobility is often most noticeable in the knees, elbows, wrists, and fingers. While some degree of joint hypermobility is common, particularly in children, when it is excessive and in multiple joints throughout the body, there are some things we want to check. 

Parent: "Why is that a problem?"

For many children, hypermobility is simply a variation that doesn't cause any problems. However, for others, it can lead to a range of issues, including:

1. Joint pain and instability: Excessive movement of the joints can put strain on the ligaments inside and muscles surrounding the joints, leading to pain and instability.

2. Increased risk of injury: Some children with hypermobility may be more prone to sprains, dislocations, and other injuries due to the instability of their joints.

3. Motor delays: In some cases, hypermobility can affect motor skills development, such as balance and coordination, particularly in younger children.

Situations where it might be easier:

✅ Another child in the family has already been told they're hypermobile, "Oh yes, Freddy has joints like that too, they bend SO much!" 

✅ One of the parents is hypermobile, "Yep, she got that from me! I've been hypermobile my whole life and dislocate my patellas every now and then" 

Why is it important to educate parents?

By understanding what hypermobility is, its potential implications, and how to support their child effectively, parents can empower their children to thrive despite any challenges they may face.