Children with hypermobility may also sit in the ‘W’ position. In this position, a child’s base of support is wider and their centre of gravity is lower, allowing for increased stability through the hips and trunk but it engages the core less so leading to weaker core muscles. It may also lead to in-toeing gait.

Another tell tale sign of hypermobility is ‘back bracing’ when standing. The can lead to problems such as rotational issues through the spine, pelvic rotation and functional leg length discrepancies.

Symptoms of hypermobility can be frequent falls, lack of interest in sport and complaining of ‘tired legs’ in young children. In older children and also adults, symptoms can be poor posture, joint pain and stiffness, foot pain and gait abnormalities, poor hand writing, and back and muscle ache and strain.

To help prevent symptoms strong muscles are required to help support weak ligaments therefore regular daily exercise is important in children. Specialised exercises can be prescribed for core strengthening by your practitioner.