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Joint hypermobility syndrome (JHS) is a hereditary connective tissue disorder that causes very flexible joints, this can cause pain in people dealing with the conditions. People with hypermobility are particularly supple and may be able to move their joints into positions others will find impossible.
How Can Children’s Orthotics Help
Joint pain associated with JHS is most common in the knee, ankle and foot. Altered biomechanics associated with joint laxity and the impact it has on walking patterns and balance. Foot Orthoses, Ankle Foot Orthoses and Knee Ankle Foot Orthoses are all devices that can be used to alter loading during walking.
Due to different levels of JHS, it is important that you and your children first receive professional advice to understand the best treatment options available. At Children’s Orthotics, our experienced paediatric orthotists understand the importance of working closing alongside you and your child to develop a treatment that suits their needs and fit in with their lifestyle.
People with JHS may:
- Keep getting pain or stiffness in joints or muscles
- Keep getting sprains and strains
- Keep dislocating joints
- Have poor balance and coordination
- Have thin, stretchy skin
- Often get tired after rest
Why Types of Orthotic Might Be Effective
Children’s Orthotics provide a variety of orthotics to help with difficulties caused by Hypermobility, depending on the outcome of the orthotist assessment. Common devices prescribed include:
- Foot Orthoses (FOs) - can be used to provide lateral/medial support during walking as well address foot contact issues with the ground during swing phase and stance phase
- Supportive footwear - we have excess to a large range of specifically designed footwear which can be tailored to provide comfort and support
- SMO (Supramalleolar Orthosis) - this is a short splint which can fit inside normal footwear. It encompasses the foot and ankle at stops at the height of the ankle bones.
- Ankle Foot Orthoses (AFOs) - can provide extra support around the foot and ankle, helping with any instabilities or hyperextension. Our bespoke AFOs will be designed and made of materials that best accommodate your child’s needs.
- Knee Ankle Foot Orthoses (KAFOs) - can provide extra stability through the knee, ankle and foot joints whilst also assisting muscles in movement.
- Lycra - Medically forced made to measure Lycra garments can provide compression and stability in the form of full body suits, leggings or shorts.
What Might The Assessment Procedure Involve
In the first instance, an appointment would be made with an orthotist in which a full initial assessment would be conducted. Your orthotist will ask you questions about your child’s daily activities and medical history. The paediatric orthotist will undertake a gait examination and watch them walk, paying attention to movements at their affected joints and making observations of how their body moves. Following this, your child’s treatment options and goals will be discussed and a prescription made. Any devices that are required will be fabricated using materials chosen specifically to meet their requirements and then a fitting session arranged. All of our prescriptions and fittings are followed by a review to ensure that the treatment is effective and any adjustments can be made.
To get in touch or arrange an appointment, you can call us at 0330 088 3949 or email office@orthotics.co.uk.