Physical Therapy for Hypomobility
Hypomobility is characterized by a decrease in a joint’s range of motion. This condition can be associated with injuries, aging, pregnancy, surgery, arthritis, and other underlying health conditions. Hypomobility significantly impacts daily life, making everyday tasks seem daunting or even impossible at times.
Physical therapy plays a crucial role in helping patients with hypomobility, offering a non-invasive approach to restoring movement. At Evolution Physical Therapy, we assist our patients in regaining mobility and reclaiming their lives without limitations. We take pride in offering support and comfort throughout each patient’s journey with us, accommodating their busy schedules to ensure a seamless and effective recovery.
What is Hypomobility?
Hypomobility occurs when a joint or series of joints loses its normal function and range of motion. This leads to restrictions that come from various underlying factors, including muscle tightness, joint inflammation, or structural abnormalities. Hypomobility isn’t limited to a specific area, as it can affect any joint in the body, often leading to stiffness and pain that lingers throughout the affected area.
Hypomobility commonly affects the following areas of the body:
Causes of Hypomobility
Hypomobility can result from various factors, making it a common issue across all ages and activity levels. Often arising from injuries, chronic conditions, or the natural aging process, this condition can severely affect people’s lives and worsen over time if not treated properly. Understanding the underlying causes of hypomobility is crucial for effective treatment. Some of the most common causes include:
- Injury: Sprains, fractures, and dislocations can cause joint stiffness, especially with prolonged immobilization.
- Arthritis: Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis lead to joint inflammation, reducing mobility and increasing pain.
- Muscle Imbalance: Tight or weak muscles around a joint, often due to poor posture or repetitive use, can limit range of motion.
- Scar Tissue: Scar tissue from surgery or injury can restrict joint movement and cause discomfort.
- Inflammation: Inflammation from various conditions can lead to stiffness and reduced joint function.
- Aging: Natural wear and tear with age can decrease joint flexibility and contribute to hypomobility.
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and added weight can impact joint stability and mobility during pregnancy.
- Surgery: Post-surgical recovery can cause joint stiffness and reduced range of motion due to immobilization required as part of the healing process.
Symptoms of Hypomobility
Depending on the affected joints, hypomobility can cause a series of symptoms that vary in severity, ranging from mild discomfort to chronic pain and significant limitations in mobility. The most common symptoms of hypomobility include:
- Pain and discomfort
- Stiffness
- Limited mobility
- Reduced function
- Muscle weakness
Hypomobility vs. Hypermobility
While hypomobility involves a limited range of motion in the joints, hypermobility refers to the exact opposite, dealing with excessive range of motion in the joints. Physical therapy can effectively manage both hypomobility and hypermobility, however, the approach to treatment varies slightly for each condition.
Physical Therapy for Hypomobility
Physical therapy for hypomobility is centered around increasing the affected joint’s range of motion and alleviating the stiffness that may be causing pain or discomfort. PT specialists use stretching exercises to help improve flexibility while also implementing strength training to support the affected joints. We also use manual therapy techniques, such as joint mobilization, which can work to enhance movement and reduce discomfort.
Physical Therapy for Hypermobility
In contrast, the approach to physical therapy for hypermobility focuses on strengthening the muscles surrounding the joints to provide stability and prevent excessive movements. Our holistic PT approach also emphasizes proprioceptive training, which refers to the body’s ability to sense its position and movement in space, enhancing joint control and preventing overextension. Postural training may also be included to ensure proper alignment and reduce the risk of further joint injuries.
How Do Physical Therapists Treat Hypomobility?
At Evolution Physical Therapy, we offer personalized treatment for hypomobility, focusing on improving range of motion and relieving stiffness in the joints. Our PT specialists create tailored plans with targeted stretches and strengthening exercises to stabilize and protect the joints. Using manual therapy and joint mobilization, we attempt to reduce inflammation and pain to restore joint function. After we start seeing visible and physical improvements, our main goal is to help patients enhance their athletic performance and ability to do the things they love, along with helping to prevent future issues.
PT Treatments for Hypomobility
Treatment for hypomobility involves techniques that aim to enhance your joint function and reduce stiffness. Common treatments include:
- Assisted Stretching
- Manual Therapy
- Strengthening Exercises
- Postural Training
- Functional Exercises
When to See a Physical Therapist for Hypomobility
If you’re struggling with joint stiffness, pain, or limited movement, it may be time to consult with a physical therapist. At Evolution Physical Therapy, our skilled PT specialists and care staff are experts in addressing the challenges of hypomobility. We are committed to helping you restore your normal function and achieve a more comfortable, pain-free life.
With locations in California, Colorado, Connecticut, and Long Island, your path toward better health is conveniently within reach. Don’t let hypomobility keep you from living life to the fullest – contact an Evolution Physical Therapy location near you or schedule an appointment online by filling out our request an appointment form today.
