Neurodivergent people often face various physical health challenges (e.g., Donaghy et al., 2023).
According to research, these physical health challenges may be mediated by hypermobility (Cederlöf et al., 2016; Csecs et al., 2022).
Hypermobility means more than just having flexible joints. While it can be advantageous, such as for gymnasts, when hypermobility is associated with other symptoms, especially pain or autonomic dysfunction, it may lead to a diagnosis of Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD) or hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS).
Previous studies have shown that symptomatic hypermobility affects not just bones and joints but various systems of the body.
For neurodivergent people, learning about hypermobility (Hypermobility) often becomes a moment of significant realization.
Hypermobility is measured using the Beighton score on a 9-point scale. The joints assessed include both little fingers, the base of both thumbs, elbows, knees, and the spine. A score of 4 or more raises suspicion of a hypermobility syndrome. So, what exactly is hypermobility? Since performing the movements required for the Beighton score can sometimes lead to joint dislocation, I have a video I previously recorded to explain hypermobility: https://youtu.be/PQG51m622H0?si=tLsdBohS4XtwzfqR In the video, I demonstrate movements of the joints, including those beyond what the Beighton score requires.
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