Hypermobility syndrome and the spectrum of excessive range of motion: a comprehensive review of current research

Hypermobility syndrome (HMS) and excessive range of motion (ROM) present distinct challenges for individuals and healthcare providers, particularly physical therapists.HMS is a connective tissue disorder characterized by joint hypermobility, chronic pain, and a predisposition to injuries, often requiring specialized therapeutic approaches.Conversely, individuals such as circus performers, gymnasts, and dancers develop excessive ROM through rigorous training, leading to a unique set of musculoskeletal issues.This literature review aims to delineate the differences between HMS and acquired excessive ROM, highlighting the necessity for tailored physical therapy interventions.By analyzing existing research, we emphasize the importance of specific knowledge and skills for physical therapists to effectively manage and prevent injuries in this population.Our findings suggest that while the underlying mechanisms differ, both conditions benefit from targeted therapeutic strategies focusing on joint stabilization, proprioception enhancement, and injury prevention.This review underscores the critical need for specialized training for physical therapists to address the unique demands of patients with acquired excessive ROM, thereby improving outcomes and reducing the risk of chronic issues.The purpose of the study.This comprehensive literature review was conducted to compare hypermobility syndrome (HMS) and excessive range of motion (ROM) in individuals who do not have HMS but have developed significant flexibility through specific training, such as circus performers, gymnasts, and dancers.The review aimed to identify the specific physical therapy needs for these populations to prevent injuries and manage their unique musculoskeletal challenges. Materials and methods.A systematic search was performed across multiple electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar.The search included articles published up to June 2024.Relevant articles were screened based on their titles and abstracts.Full-text articles of potentially relevant studies were then reviewed.Data were extracted regarding the characteristics of the study, outcomes measured, and key findings.The extracted data were synthesized to identify common themes, differences, and gaps in the existing literature.Outcomes and discussion.Our findings indicate that while the underlying mechanisms of HMS and acquired excessive ROM differ, both conditions benefit from targeted therapeutic strategies focusing on joint stabilization, proprioception enhancement, and injury prevention.For individuals with acquired excessive ROM, tailored interventions that account for their unique biomechanical demands are crucial.The literature suggests that these individuals are at risk for overuse injuries, joint instability, and other musculoskeletal issues, necessitating a proactive and informed approach to physical therapy.Conclusions.This review underscores the critical need for specialized training for physical therapists to address the unique demands of patients with acquired excessive ROM.By incorporating specific strategies aimed at enhancing joint stability and preventing injury, therapists can improve outcomes and help these individuals maintain their high level of performance.Future research should continue to explore optimal therapeutic techniques and preventative measures to support these specialised groups.