Doublejointed

Doublejointed is a lay term used to describe joints that can move beyond a normal range of motion. It is not a medical diagnosis. People described as doublejointed may be able to bend their fingers backward, bend their elbows or knees further than typical, or touch the palm to the forearm. The trait varies widely and is common in children; some individuals retain high flexibility into adulthood.

Causes and related conditions: Joints become unusually flexible due to ligament laxity, joint shape, and connective tissue properties. Genetic factors affect collagen and other structural proteins. Generalized hypermobility is more frequent in females and in certain populations. In some people, hypermobility is part of Benign Joint Hypermobility Syndrome or Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder, and may be associated with chronic pain, fatigue, or dislocations. It can also occur in individuals with certain connective tissue disorders such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, though not all hypermobile people have a defined disorder.

Diagnosis: Assessment uses a Beighton score, a 9-point scale evaluating finger extension, thumb-to-forearm apposition, elbow and knee extension, and back flexibility. A higher score indicates greater generalized hypermobility. Medical evaluation also considers symptoms, history of joint injuries, and impact on daily living.

Management and prognosis: For many, doublejointedness is benign and requires no treatment. For those with symptoms, management focuses on safe activities, strength and proprioception training, and pain control. Physical therapy often helps reduce injury risk. Some people use braces or activity modification; surgical intervention is rare and only in specific circumstances.