Symptoms of HSDs
People who possess Joint Hypermobility do not necessarily develop health complications during their lifetime.
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However, for those who do develop the following symptoms should be evaluated for HSDs to ensure early treatment.
Trauma
Trauma to the musculoskeletal system is a common symptom of HSDs. It is divided into Macrotrauma and Microtrauma
Macrotrauma such as dislocations, and connected soft tissue damage (ligaments, tendons, muscles) can be a result of untreated HSDs. This may potentially cause acute pain and loss of joint function.
Microtrauma, which are injuries too small to be noticed as they happen, can also be caused by HSDs. Over time, such trauma may expose the patient to recurring chronic pain and early joint degeneration such as osteoarthritis.
Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is a symptom often faced by those affected by HSDs, which arise from frequent trauma to the body.
In addition, Hyperalgesia (increased sensitivity to pain), caused by impaired connective tissue function, is also a reason for chronic pain among sufferers of HSDs.
Chronic pain can impair concentration and physical ability, thus hindering the quality of many patients lives.
Disturbed Proprioception
Proprioception is the sense of the relative position of parts of the body and how much effort is needed for movement.
In HSD patients, Proprioceptors in the connective tissues may be damaged, affecting their sense of proprioception.
This disturbed proprioception can inhibit the ability to do simple physical activities such as walking, thus increasingly limiting an individual's ability to manage their everyday life
Mental complications
While mental illnesses are not directly caused by HSDs, many patients develop mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression. The association between HSDs and anxiety, for example, has been widely explored and supported by numerous studies.
These complications are very crucial and should be taken note of during the treatment process.
