Understanding Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders
Dr. Michelle Speranza is a NUCCA Upper Cervical Chiropractor, owner of Core Balance Centre, and co-founder of re-HUB Health Collective. She holds a Diplomate in Chiropractic Craniocervical Junction Procedures (DCCJP) and is passionate about serving and educating people on the impact head and neck injuries have on brain health and wellness.
Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD) represent a range of conditions characterized by excessive joint flexibility. While many people associate being “double-jointed” with party tricks or athletic prowess, hypermobility often comes with a host of physical challenges that can profoundly affect quality of life. As an upper cervical chiropractor, I frequently encounter patients whose hypermobility is a root contributor to chronic pain, fatigue, and musculoskeletal instability. Understanding this condition is crucial for effective care and long-term management.
What are hypermobility spectrum disorders?
HSD encompasses a range of diagnoses that include hypermobility as a primary feature. The most well-known condition within this spectrum is hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS), but HSD also includes other forms of generalized joint hypermobility without systemic connective tissue disorders. Common symptoms include:
Chronic joint pain, particularly in weight-bearing joints.
Frequent joint subluxations or dislocations.
Soft tissue injuries such as sprains or strains.
Fatigue and poor proprioception (the body’s sense of joint position).
Hypermobility arises from differences in collagen, a key structural protein in connective tissue, that result in ligaments and tendons being overly lax. While this can offer advantages in certain sports or activities, it often leads to joint instability, pain, and systemic symptoms.
The role of the upper cervical spine
The upper cervical spine plays a pivotal role in maintaining overall stability and alignment. For individuals with hypermobility, this area is particularly vulnerable due to its inherent structural delicacy and reliance on ligamentous integrity. The atlantooccipital (skull and C1) and atlantoaxial (C1 and C2) joints, located at the base of the skull and the top of the neck, can be especially affected, leading to issues such as:
Cervical instability: Increased movement between the C1 and C2 vertebrae can cause neurological symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, and visual disturbances.
Chronic muscle tension: As the body attempts to stabilize hypermobile joints, compensatory muscle tightness can develop, contributing to neck pain and tension-type headaches.
Neurological symptoms: Disruption in normal nerve signaling in this region may lead to widespread effects, including fatigue, brain fog, and even autonomic dysfunction.
Upper cervical chiropractic care
Upper cervical chiropractic care focuses on restoring alignment and stability to the upper neck without adding undue stress to hypermobile joints. Through precise, gentle adjustments, we aim to:
Improve neurological function: Correcting misalignments in the upper cervical spine can optimize nerve communication and support better coordination throughout the body.
Enhance joint stability: While we cannot change the underlying connective tissue differences, restoring proper alignment can reduce mechanical stress on ligaments and surrounding structures.
Relieve chronic pain: Addressing compensatory patterns and muscular imbalances helps alleviate the chronic pain often associated with hypermobility.
Support proprioception: Gentle care can improve the body’s ability to sense joint positioning, reducing the risk of injury and fostering greater confidence in movement.
Additional support for patients with HSD
Comprehensive care for hypermobility often extends beyond chiropractic adjustments. Key strategies include:
Strengthening exercises: Building core and joint-stabilizing muscles can improve overall function and reduce injury risk.
Postural awareness: Teaching patients how to maintain optimal posture helps minimize strain on hypermobile joints.
Lifestyle modifications: Educating patients on activity pacing, ergonomic adjustments, and proper footwear can help manage symptoms effectively.
Collaboration with other providers: Working alongside physical therapists, athletic therapists, nutritionists, or rheumatologists ensures a well-rounded approach to care.
Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders require a nuanced understanding and individualized approach to care. As an upper cervical chiropractor, my goal is to provide patients with the tools and support they need to live more comfortably and confidently. By addressing the unique challenges hypermobility presents, we can help our patients find relief and regain a sense of control over their health.
Read more from Dr. Michelle Speranza
Dr. Michelle Speranza DC, DCCJP, BSc, NUCCA Upper Cervical Chiropractor
Dr. Michelle Speranza is an upper cervical Chiropractor in Airdrie, Alberta, Canada. She is a member of the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association (NUCCA) and has advanced training in craniocervical junction procedures. Working with people suffering from headaches, neck pain, hypermobility, and dizziness, her passion is helping people restore balance in their body, return to doing the activities that they love, and ultimately take back control of their health.
