What is HMS Syndrome?

HMS syndrome, or Hypermobility Syndrome, is a dominant inherited connective tissue disorder characterized by excessive joint laxity. This means that the joints are more flexible and move beyond their normal range. The condition is also referred to as "generalized articular hypermobility, with or without subluxation or dislocation."

Understanding Hypermobility Syndrome

Here's a breakdown of the key aspects of HMS:

• Inherited Condition: HMS is a genetic disorder passed down through families.
• Connective Tissue Disorder: It affects the connective tissues, which provide support and structure to the body, including joints, ligaments, and tendons.
• Joint Hypermobility: The primary symptom is excessive flexibility in multiple joints throughout the body.
• Potential for Subluxation or Dislocation: Due to the instability of hypermobile joints, individuals might experience subluxations (partial dislocations) or full dislocations.

Symptoms and Manifestations

Individuals with HMS may experience a range of symptoms. These can vary in severity from mild to debilitating and include:

• Joint Pain and Stiffness: Despite being hypermobile, joints can often experience pain and stiffness, particularly after activity.
• Fatigue: Chronic fatigue is a common complaint among people with HMS.
• Recurrent Sprains and Strains: Due to joint instability, individuals are more prone to sprains, strains, and other injuries.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Pain or injury to muscles, ligaments, and tendons is also possible.
• Other Possible Symptoms: Some people might also experience issues like skin problems, digestive issues, or heart problems.

Diagnosis

There is no single diagnostic test for HMS. Diagnosis relies on:

• Medical History: Doctors will evaluate your family medical history and discuss past injuries and symptoms.
• Physical Examination: This includes assessing the flexibility of joints using tools such as the Beighton score.
• Exclusion of other conditions: It is important to rule out other conditions that could cause similar symptoms such as Ehlers Danlos Syndrome or other forms of connective tissue disorders.

Management and Treatment

There is no cure for HMS, but treatment aims to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Approaches may include:

• Physical Therapy: This can strengthen muscles around the joints and improve stability.
• Pain Management: Medications, both over-the-counter and prescribed, may be used to control pain.
• Assistive Devices: Braces, splints, or other devices may be recommended to support joints.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Modifying activities to reduce stress on joints.

Summary Table