No, you cannot have two joints where one should be. What is often perceived as having "double joints" is actually hypermobility, a condition where joints can move beyond their normal range of motion. This is explained by orthopedic surgeon Michael Star, MD, who clarifies that the term "double-jointedness" is a misnomer.
Understanding Hypermobility
Hypermobility is a condition characterized by increased flexibility in the joints. While it might seem like having extra joints, the underlying structure remains the same; it's simply the range of motion that's atypical.
- Example: Someone with hypermobile elbows might be able to bend their elbows further than the average person, giving the impression of having additional joints.
Multiple Interpretations of "Joints"
The question "Can you have two joints?" is ambiguous. It could refer to several different contexts:
1. Anatomical Joints:
As explained above, you cannot have two physical joints where a single joint should be. The anatomical structure of a joint doesn't allow for duplication.
2. Joint Accounts (Financial):
You can have two joint accounts (e.g., bank accounts, investment accounts). This refers to shared ownership and access, not physical anatomical joints. Multiple people can jointly own an account. For instance, a joint bank account allows two individuals to access and manage the account. (See: FDIC: Joint Accounts)
3. Joint Employment (Legal):
In the context of employment law, an individual might have a "joint employment" relationship, meaning they work simultaneously for two employers. This type of joint relationship is related to legal and employment obligations, not physical joints. (See: DOL Fact Sheet #28N: Joint Employment)
4. Joint Sponsorships (Immigration):
For immigration purposes, there can be two "joint sponsors." This is a legal arrangement for financial responsibility, not a physical joint. (See: USCIS Form I-864 Instructions)
5. Multiple Joint Problems (Medical):
You can have multiple problems affecting your joints, such as osteoarthritis in multiple joints in your body. This is not "having two joints," but rather, having multiple sites affected by the same condition. (See: Mayo Clinic: Bone and joint problems associated with diabetes)
In conclusion, while the term "double-jointed" is commonly used, it's a misnomer. The concept of having "two joints" depends heavily on context. In the purely anatomical sense, it is impossible.
