What treatments are there for joint hypermobility?

If you have symptoms of joint hypermobility then a combination of rest, exercise and physiotherapy will often help, but drug treatments are also available if needed, including:

• painkillers (analgesics) e.g. paracetamol, codeine
• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – e.g. ibuprofen
• NSAID sprays or creams

Surgery is generally not recommended unless you rupture a tendon.

Physical therapies

A physiotherapist will be able to advise you on suitable exercises. For some people gentle stretching seems to be as effective as strengthening.

Splints or firm elasticated bandages can be used if necessary to protect against dislocation. An occupational therapist or physiotherapist can advise on these. It’s also quite common for hypermobile people to manipulate and click their loose joints, which often makes the joints feel better. But sometimes you may need professional medical help to manipulate the joint back into place.

Read more about physiotherapy and arthritis.