Hyper mobility

[Applejack87]

Hi , I’m after some advice please , I took my dd to a podiatrist as I noticed she has flat feet . While we were there he asked if she’d been diagnosed with hyper mobility I said no and tbh was shocked . He done some tests on her and said she has the condition he didn’t seem concerned . I’ve read thatvit can be genetic , she’s also complaining about knee pain we were advised that she keeps her muscles strong
I don’t know much about this condition any advice greatly appreciated please

Have a look at the Hypermobility Association website.

It depends what type your child has as to what issues they might face. I have joint Hypermobility syndrome (EDS type 3). Had some surgery, physio as a child to treat multiple dislocations and managed ok until fairly recently. Now I have much more pain, joint problems, POTS but I'm also getting more support like podiatry, physio, hydrotherapy and hand therapy.

It's worth doing some research. I've found the best help has been to do strengthening exercises like pilates whilst maintaining flexibility with yoga.

Now that I see specialists in London I am being taught not to hyperextend my joints and to learn where my joints are in space (proprioception) to limit damage.

Hypermobility from NHS
Another site for hypermobility

How old is your DD? My DD2 was diagnosed with Hypermobilty and low muscle tone aged 3. She was given orthotic insoles by the podiatrist to help stabilise her ankles and improve her arch.
The insoles have made a huge difference. Depending on her age it might be helpful to do more activities that strengthen muscles. Swimming, forest school (climbing and balancing on uneven surfaces), soft play / gymnastics.
I was told that while exercise is important, it is also key to avoid overworking the muscles. To rest when they become tired..little and often seemed to be the key.
If they overwork the muscles and overextended then they will suffer pain and sometimes damage and this can cause set backs.
My DD2, now 5, experiences cramps in her feet that wake her in the night if she overdoes it in PE, or is on her feet a lot.
I wish you and your daughter the best and hope this diagnosis is a positive step as it was for us.

Thankyou for your replies my dd is 12 we didn’t pick up on anything when she was a baby she crawled and started walking ok
I need more advice but really didn’t know where to start and the podiatrist wasn’t concerned , she also has insoles for her shoes , she does karate and sports at school hockey /netball .. I wonder if swimming would help strengthen her muscles

It’s really very common and not a huge deal. Unless there are other issues alongside you will find most doctors don’t have a huge amount to say on it.

My 6 yo DD has Classical EDS and is very hypermobile. She has a gross motor delay and wears boots with insoles which help with the pain and stop her falling so much. Her paediatrician recommended swimming to build muscle tone so sounds like that could help your DD too.