Hypermobility - the little-known 'bendy disease' that causes pain and fatigue
Summary
Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD) is a condition where joints move more than usual due to loose connective tissues, causing pain, fatigue, and other symptoms. Many people with HSD wait many years to get a diagnosis, and there is limited clinical guidance and specialist support available.Key Facts
- HSD causes joints to bend beyond the normal range because of weak connective tissue.
- Symptoms include joint pain, fatigue, digestive problems, and clumsiness.
- HSD and related conditions like hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) affect connective tissues throughout the body.
- People with HSD often wait around 19 to 22 years before receiving a diagnosis in the UK.
- Women appear to be more affected by HSD and hEDS than men.
- The UK’s health system lacks specific guidelines to diagnose HSD clearly.
- Very few patients have GPs who actively manage the disorder or access to expert doctors.
- Many diagnosed individuals learn about managing the condition through social media and community resources.
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.