Say goodbye to the discomfort and discover how to effectively prevent finger subluxations in hypermobility and EDS and reclaim control over your daily activities. As a physical therapy clinic that specializes in chronic illnesses like Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and hypermobility, we often encounter patients struggling with finger subluxations. These conditions affect the connective tissues in the body, leading to joint instability and frequent dislocations or subluxations. In this blog, we’ll explore what finger subluxations are, why they occur in patients with hypermobility and EDS, and how you can manage and prevent them.
What are Finger Subluxations?
Finger subluxations occur when the bones in the finger joint partially dislocate, causing pain, swelling, and limited range of motion. In patients with hypermobility and EDS, the ligaments and tissues supporting the joints are weaker than usual. Therefore, this makes them more prone to subluxations. If you think you may have a subluxation, here are a few things to look out for:
Pain or discomfort in the affected finger joint
Swelling and tenderness around the joint
Reduced range of motion or stiffness in the finger
Feeling of instability or “looseness” in the joint
Clicking or popping sensation during movement
Difficulty gripping objects or performing fine motor tasks
Visible deformity or misalignment of the finger joint
Why Do Subluxations Happen in Hypermobility and EDS?
In hypermobility and EDS, collagen, which provides strength and support to the joints, is defective. This leads to laxity in the ligaments and instability in the joints, including those in the fingers. Activities that exert pressure on the fingers, such as typing, gripping objects, or even simple movements, can trigger subluxations.
Subluxations vs. Dislocations
In patients with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and hypermobility, understanding the distinction between subluxations and dislocations is crucial. Subluxations refer to partial dislocations, where the bones in a joint move out of their normal position but then return spontaneously or with minimal assistance. They often cause pain, swelling, and temporary joint dysfunction. Dislocations, on the other hand, involve complete displacement of the joint surfaces, requiring manual intervention to relocate them. Dislocations typically result in more severe pain, swelling, and sometimes damage to surrounding tissues. Given the inherent joint laxity and instability in EDS and hypermobility, both subluxations and dislocations are common occurrences, necessitating careful management and preventive strategies to minimize their impact on patients’ daily lives.
Managing Finger Subluxations
If you experience a finger subluxation, it’s essential to seek prompt treatment to reduce pain and prevent further damage. Your physical therapist can teach you exercises to strengthen the muscles around the affected joint, improving stability and reducing the risk of future subluxations. Additionally, splinting or taping the finger may provide support and prevent excessive movement.
Preventing Future Subluxations
Prevention is key in managing finger subluxations. Avoiding activities that strain the fingers, maintaining proper posture, and using ergonomic tools can help minimize the risk of subluxations. Your physical therapist can also educate you on joint protection exercises and proper body mechanics to prevent injuries. Incorporating targeted exercises into a physical therapy regimen can be instrumental in preventing finger subluxations among individuals with hypermobility and EDS. These exercises focus on strengthening the muscles surrounding the affected joints, thereby providing enhanced support and stability. By improving muscle tone and control, patients can better withstand the stresses placed on their fingers during everyday activities. This helps reduce the likelihood of joint misalignment.
Seeking Professional Help
Additionally, specific exercises can help enhance the body’s awareness of joint position, allowing patients to better detect and correct potential subluxations before they escalate. Through consistent practice and guidance from a physical therapist, patients can build resilience in their fingers, empowering them to maintain optimal joint alignment and minimize the recurrence of subluxations. If you have hypermobility or EDS and frequently experience finger subluxations, consulting with a physical therapist or occupational therapist who specializes in these conditions is crucial. They can assess your condition, develop a personalized treatment plan, and provide ongoing support to help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Next steps
Finger subluxations can be challenging to deal with, especially for patients with hypermobility and EDS. However, with the right treatment and preventive measures, you can effectively manage these symptoms and reduce their impact on your daily life. By working closely with your physical therapist and adopting strategies to strengthen and protect your joints, you can take control of your condition and enjoy improved mobility and comfort. Take the first step towards personalized care and reclaim your comfort! Fill out this form now to receive more info about a exercise and treatment program designed specifically for you.