Hyperlaxity is the excessive elasticity of certain tissues and joints. While it can be completely benign, it can also be a sign of serious illnesses. We take stock with Dr. Christophe Delong, specialist in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.
Definition: what is joint hyperlaxity?
Hyperlaxity means excessive elasticity of the peri-articular tissues (muscles, tendons and ligaments) and joints. It can be localized and only affect certain joints such as the knees, hips, shoulders, phalanges… or generalized. “If it can be totally asymptomatic, it can also be accompanied by muscle and joint painand promote the risk of sprain and dislocation due to the joint instability it causes“, explains Dr. Christophe Delong. Generalized hyperlaxity, which mainly concerns children, is most often asymptomatic and is completely benign. Hyperlaxity affects women three times more often than men. “Nevertheless often the laxity decreases between 20 and 30 years : the connective tissue becomes less elastic“, adds Dr. Delong.
“One of the best and most obvious signs is hyperextension of all the fingers of the hand“, says Dr. Delong.
What are the diseases that cause hyperlaxity?
Hyperlaxity can be a symptom of a disease. “She may be present in case of genetic diseases such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Down syndrome (or trisomy 21), Marfan syndrome and Morquio syndrome“, says our expert.
Is it serious to be hyperlax?
No it doesn’t matter to be hyperlax. “On the other hand, this situation is a risk factor for developing other pathologies. It can also be a source of pain and interfere with daily life.“, warns Dr. Delong.
What are the consequences and complications of hyperlaxity?
Depending on the area concerned, joint hyperlaxity can cause:
- Of the recurrent sprains
- Of the dislocations or dislocations shoulder, patella, jaw…
- Of the recurrent subluxations
- Of the tendinitis, especially in the elbow, shoulder and knee
- Of the joint deformities at the knees and fingers
- A early osteoarthritis
Who to consult in case of hyperlaxity?
Your attending physician will be your first point of contact. If it causes repeated joint problems, he can refer you to a rheumatologist. If he considers that it may be the symptom of a more serious illness, additional examinations will be prescribed.
In adults, the diagnosis of hyperlaxity is established by Beighton score. It consists of a series of 5 examinations (place your hand on the ground with your legs straight; bend each elbow backwards; bend each knee backwards; bend your thumb towards your forearm; bend your little finger backwards more than 90°). A score greater than 4 indicates hyperlaxity. Additional tests may also be ordered to look for other symptoms and the cause of the hyperlaxity.
What is the treatment for hyperlaxity?
“It does not always require support: it all depends if it is a symptom of a disease or not and if it is painful“, specifies Dr. Delong. When necessary, the treatment is essentially based on a specific rehabilitation carried out by a physiotherapistmuscle-strengthening exercises and sometimes wearing an orthosis.
Thanks to Dr. Christophe Delong, specialist in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.