I want to dive into something that’s both fascinating and super important for many of us—hypermobility. If you’ve ever wondered whether that extra flexibility might be more than just a party trick, or if you’ve been dealing with unexplained aches, pains, or even digestive issues, this is for you.

What Exactly Is Hypermobility?
Hypermobility means your joints can move beyond the typical range. While that might sound great, it often comes with some “soft” signs—like joint pain, fatigue, or even skin that stretches more than usual. These can be clues that your connective tissues are a bit looser, which sometimes leads to other issues.

How Can You Tell If You’re Hypermobile?

• Beighton Score: Many of you might have heard of this—it’s a simple test to assess your joint flexibility.

• Everyday Clues: Think frequent joint dislocations or pain, along with some extra stretch in your skin or unexpected bruising.

Hypermobility and Its Wider Impact
I’ve been particularly intrigued by how hypermobility can tie into other areas of our health. For example:

• Neurodiversity: Experts like Jessica Eccles have been exploring links between hypermobility and conditions like ADHD – although correlation isn’t causation the links are very interesting!

• Gut Health & Anxiety: There seems to be a connection between our connective tissues and digestive function, which might also play into feelings of anxiety.

• Women’s Health & Postpartum Recovery: If you’re a new mum dealing with diastasis rectus abdominus (DRA), urinary issues (like UUI/SUI), or even injuries from childbirth, hypermobility could be a piece of the puzzle.

• Injury Risks: Extra flexibility can mean a higher risk of sprains, strains, and other musculoskeletal injuries over time.

For those who want to dig even deeper, I highly recommend checking out Hypermobility.org for some really informative resources.

What Can You Do? Practical Tips for Prevention and Management

Exercise Smart:

• Focus on Stability & Strength: Low-impact workouts that build core strength are a must. I love recommending Pilates (I love the reformer!) , yoga (with modifications, of course), and resistance training with controlled movements.

• Customised Plans: Working with a specialist to create an exercise plan that fits your unique body can make all the difference.

• Postpartum Recovery: For new mums, targeted exercises can rebuild core strength and help with pelvic floor stability—key if you’re dealing with DRA or other postpartum issues.

Lifestyle and Nutrition:

• Anti-inflammatory Diet: A diet rich in antioxidants (think berries, leafy greens, nuts) can support your connective tissues.

• Protein & Amino Acids: Especially for post-menopausal clients or those recovering from injury, increasing your protein intake to around 2–3 g per kg of body weight can be very helpful. Plus, don’t forget about amino acids like tyrosine (found in lean meats, dairy, soy, and legumes) which help keep your dopamine levels balanced.

• Omega-3s and More: Including foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids—like fatty fish or flaxseeds—can help lower inflammation and support joint health. And, of course, the benefits of vitamins C, E, magnesium, and selenium can’t be ignored.

Wrapping Up
Understanding hypermobility—and how it connects to other aspects of our health—can empower you to take better care of yourself. Whether you’re dealing with joint pain, digestive issues, or challenges with postpartum recovery, there are steps you can take. Tailored exercise, smart nutrition, and the right lifestyle adjustments can all contribute to a healthier, more balanced you.

I’m excited to explore this topic with you, and I hope you find these insights useful. As always, if you have any questions or need some personalised advice, feel free to reach out!