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| - Last Updated on February 6, 2025 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that double-jointed individuals are at greater risk of health problems. Our fact check shows this is half true.
The Claim
A recent Facebook post suggests that being double-jointed is linked to serious health risks, including chronic pain, gastrointestinal disorders, and other systemic issues.
Fact Check
What is hypermobility, and does it mean being double-jointed?
Yes, but there’s more to it. The term “double-jointed” (medically referred to as hypermobility) is a common but inaccurate way to describe joint hypermobility, a condition where joints move beyond the normal range of motion. This happens due to the elasticity of connective tissues like ligaments and tendons. Despite the name, it doesn’t mean extra joints are involved, and hypermobility is relatively common. In 2023, a study focused on General Joint Hypermobility (GJH) in young people, particularly those involved in sports like gymnastics. GJH affects 2–57% of people, with 10% experiencing symptoms such as pain or mental health issues. The study emphasized the need for further research, especially on its impact on mental health and treatment options. For most people, however, it’s a harmless trait with no serious health concerns.
Does hypermobility indicate weak connective tissue?
Sometimes, it may. In most cases, hypermobility is harmless and not linked to weak connective tissues. However, for individuals with joint hypermobility syndrome (JHS) or a related condition like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), the flexibility can stem from a genetic predisposition to weaker connective tissues. This weakness may lead to symptoms such as joint pain, instability, and fatigue. But it’s crucial to distinguish between harmless hypermobility and these more serious, rare conditions.
Dr Almas Fatma, MBBS, Diploma in Family Medicine, PG in Digital Health, General Physician from Navi Mumbai, clarifies, “Hypermobility doesn’t necessarily mean weak connective tissue. It simply means the joints can move beyond the usual range. While some people with hypermobility may have weaker connective tissues, many live without any problems. It’s important to understand that hypermobility can vary from person to person, and not everyone with it will experience issues.”
We have debunked another case of health-related fear-mongering suggesting that sleeping on the right side can cause heart attacks during the night.
Can hypermobility lead to chronic pain?
Yes, but not for everyone. Many people with hypermobility live without problems, but some may experience chronic pain or joint injuries. This is more common in individuals with hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD) or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), as their connective tissues may not support the joints effectively. A 2023 study found that joint hypermobility affects 30% of people in the UK. While it can cause issues like pain, anxiety, and difficulty with work or school for some, not everyone with hypermobility experiences these problems. The review stressed the need for better awareness and a team approach to managing these conditions. For athletes or those with physically demanding lifestyles, repeated joint stress can worsen pain or lead to long-term issues.
Dr Ubaid ur Rahman, General Physician, Holy Mission Clinic, New Delhi, says, “Hypermobility can lead to chronic pain in some individuals, especially if the joints move too much and put strain on surrounding tissues. While not everyone with hypermobility experiences pain, it can be more common in those with additional conditions like hypermobility spectrum disorders or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. It’s important to seek medical advice if pain becomes persistent.”
Are other health issues, such as gastrointestinal disorders or POTS, linked to hypermobility?
Yes, but rarely. Hypermobility is sometimes linked to systemic conditions. For example, studies have found connections between hypermobility syndromes and gastrointestinal issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Additionally, postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), which affects blood circulation, can co-occur with hypermobility syndromes, particularly Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS). A 2024 study highlighted that young women with joint hypermobility, hEDS, POTS, and mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) often experience severe stomach problems, such as nausea and vomiting. These issues are challenging to diagnose and manage, and some women require nutritional support. The study aims to raise awareness and encourage more research to improve treatment for these patients. However, such associations are rare and typically relate to specific conditions, not general hypermobility.
Is hypermobility a risk factor for complications from infections like COVID-19?
There is no conclusive evidence that hypermobility directly increases the risk of complications from infections like COVID-19. While some conditions linked to hypermobility can affect overall health, generalized hypermobility does not weaken the immune system or make someone more prone to infections. However, a 2024 study suggests that long COVID might be linked to hypermobility. It explains that long COVID could cause inflammation and damage to connective tissues, potentially leading to hypermobility in some individuals. Similarly, a 2022 study found that fibromyalgia, a chronic pain condition, may develop in people with joint hypermobility after having COVID-19. The study highlighted that young women with joint hypermobility who experienced tendon injury during COVID-19 were particularly at risk. Researchers believe COVID-19 could trigger fibromyalgia by damaging connective tissues, with three case studies supporting this theory.
THIP Media Take
The claim that double-jointed individuals are at greater risk of health problems is half true. While hypermobility can indicate weak connective tissues in some conditions, most hypermobile individuals have no health problems. Chronic pain and issues like gastrointestinal disorders are more common in hypermobility spectrum disorders or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. For concerns, consulting a doctor can help distinguish between benign hypermobility and more serious conditions.
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