What Can an Occupational Therapist Do for Hypermobility?

Hypermobility is a condition where joints move beyond their normal range of motion, often leading to pain, fatigue and functional challenges in daily activities. While physiotherapy (PT) focuses on strengthening and mobility exercises, occupational therapy (OT) complements this by helping individuals manage symptoms and maintain independence in their daily lives. So, what can an occupational therapist do for hypermobility?

Occupational therapists provide practical strategies to enhance fine and gross motor function, recommend adaptive equipment and implement ergonomic modifications. They also collaborate with physiotherapists, rheumatologists and pain management specialists to develop comprehensive treatment plans tailored to the individual’s needs.

In this article, we explore how occupational therapy can help individuals with hypermobility improve their quality of life and perform daily tasks with greater ease and confidence.

What Can an Occupational Therapist Do for Hypermobility? A Quick Overview

Occupational therapy supports individuals with hypermobility by focusing on:

• Fine and Gross Motor Development: Strengthening muscles for daily tasks.

• Adaptive Equipment & Assistive Technology: Providing tools to improve function and independence.

• Environmental Modifications: Creating accessible and supportive spaces.

• Fatigue & Pain Management: Implementing techniques to reduce discomfort.

• Occupational Modifications: Adjusting tasks to prevent joint strain.

• Ergonomic Strategies: Improving posture and body mechanics for daily activities.

Through these targeted interventions, occupational therapists help individuals with hypermobility build strength, reduce pain and engage in daily activities with greater ease.

How Occupational Therapy Supports Individuals with Hypermobility

Occupational therapy helps individuals with hypermobility manage daily tasks, reduce discomfort and improve stability. Here’s how it supports them in their daily lives:

Fine and Gross Motor Development

Hypermobility can affect both fine motor (small movements) and gross motor (larger movements) skills, making tasks like writing, lifting objects or standing for long periods difficult. Occupational therapists help by:

• Developing exercises to strengthen stabilising muscles.

• Providing activities to improve coordination and balance.

• Using resistance training to build endurance and prevent joint instability.

By improving motor function, individuals can gain better control over movements and reduce the risk of injury.

Adaptive Equipment & Assistive Technology

For those experiencing difficulty with daily activities due to hypermobility, OTs recommend adaptive tools such as:

• Braces and splints to support joints and prevent excessive movement.

• Ergonomic writing tools to reduce hand strain.

• Modified cutlery and kitchen tools for better grip and control.

• Seating and posture aids to enhance comfort and stability.

These tools provide additional support, which makes everyday tasks more manageable and reduces strain on the joints.

Environmental Modifications for a Supportive Space

Occupational therapists assess and modify environments to ensure they support individuals with hypermobility. They may recommend:

• Adjustable desks and chairs to promote better posture.

• Non-slip mats and handrails for added stability.

• Proper workstation setups to minimise strain during prolonged activities.

• Cushioned flooring to reduce impact on joints when walking.

These modifications make home, school and work environments more comfortable and accessible.

Fatigue & Pain Management Strategies

Chronic pain and fatigue are common issues for individuals with hypermobility. Occupational therapy provides:

• Energy conservation techniques to reduce physical strain throughout the day.

• Joint protection strategies to prevent overuse injuries.

• Breathing and relaxation exercises to manage pain more effectively.

• Hydrotherapy recommendations for low-impact muscle strengthening.

By integrating these strategies, individuals can minimise discomfort and maintain an active lifestyle without excessive fatigue.

Occupational Modifications to Reduce Joint Strain

Everyday activities can put excessive strain on hypermobile joints. OTs work with individuals to:

• Modify tasks to minimise joint stress (e.g., using both hands to lift objects).

• Teach proper body mechanics for lifting, carrying and bending.

• Introduce activity pacing techniques to prevent overuse injuries.

• Recommend alternative methods for self-care tasks like dressing or cooking.

By adapting daily routines, individuals can perform tasks more efficiently with less risk of pain or injury.

Ergonomic Strategies for Daily Activities

Ergonomic adjustments help individuals with hypermobility maintain proper posture and reduce joint strain. Occupational therapists focus on:

• Encouraging correct sitting and standing postures to minimise stress on the body.

• Teaching safe computer use techniques to prevent hand and wrist pain.

• Recommending adjustable furniture for better support and comfort.

• Advising on sleep positions and mattress choices for optimal rest.

These strategies ensure individuals can function comfortably in work, school and home environments.

How Occupational Therapists Work with Other Professionals

Occupational therapists collaborate with various healthcare providers to offer a well-rounded treatment plan for hypermobility. They work alongside:

• Physiotherapists, who focus on muscle strengthening and joint stability.

• Rheumatologists, who diagnose and manage connective tissue disorders.

• Pain Management Specialists, who provide targeted pain relief strategies.

• Orthotists, who design custom braces and supports.

This multidisciplinary approach ensures that all aspects of the individual’s condition are addressed for the best possible outcomes.

When to Consider Occupational Therapy for Hypermobility

Individuals with hypermobility should seek occupational therapy if they experience:

• Persistent joint pain or instability affecting daily activities.

• Difficulty performing self-care tasks, such as dressing or grooming.

• Challenges with writing, gripping or fine motor control.

• Fatigue that limits participation in work, school or recreational activities.

• Struggles with maintaining good posture or joint alignment.

Early intervention can help prevent long-term complications and improve overall function.

Get Professional Occupational Therapy Support with Youth OT

At Youth OT, we specialise in helping individuals with hypermobility achieve greater independence and comfort in their daily lives. Our occupational therapists provide personalised treatment plans that include motor skill development, adaptive equipment recommendations, pain management strategies and ergonomic modifications.

We collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure a comprehensive and tailored approach to treatment. Whether you need support for fine motor challenges, fatigue management or workplace adaptations, our expert team is here to help.

Contact us today to discuss how occupational therapy can support your hypermobility needs. Let’s create a plan that works for you!

Final Thoughts

Occupational therapy plays a critical role in managing hypermobility by improving motor skills, reducing pain and enhancing functional independence. Through tailored interventions, environmental modifications and ergonomic strategies, OTs empower individuals to participate fully in daily activities without excessive strain on their joints.

If you or a loved one has hypermobility and needs professional support, reach out to Youth OT today to explore how occupational therapy can make a difference.