Is double-jointed a real condition?

What does it mean to be double-jointed? In reality, there’s no such thing as being double-jointed. (Wait, what?) The term implies that you have two joints where there should be one, which isn’t possible, says orthopaedic surgeon Michael Star, MD.

What is the actual term for double-jointed?

Hypermobility, also known as double-jointedness, describes joints that stretch farther than normal.

Why is double-jointed inaccurate?

The term double-jointed is an inaccurate way of saying that someone has hypermobility of their joints. Double-jointed would imply that the individual has more joints than normal or that their joints have a twice-normal motion – neither of these is true.

How do you know if you’re double-jointed?

Joint hypermobility syndrome is diagnosed by examining affected joints and noting that they easily move beyond the normal range expected. For example, the middle of the fingers may bend backward more than usual. There is no blood test for hypermobility syndrome.

What are the disadvantages of being double jointed?

The trait appears to be genetic and is a result of variation in collagen, the main structural protein of connective tissue. Being double-jointed has long been linked with an increased risk for asthma and irritable bowel syndrome, among other physical disorders.

Does being double jointed cause pain?

Joint hypermobility syndrome is when you have very flexible joints and it causes you pain (you may think of yourself as being double-jointed). It usually affects children and young people and often gets better as you get older.

What does it mean when a person is double jointed?

If you’re double jointed, it means you have a joint that can bend a lot more than in the average person. This has its upsides and downsides: apart from being a great party trick to show to friends, it might also mean you get injured more easily.

Is it normal for your fingers to bend backwards?

Overview. Hitchhiker’s thumb is a thumb that’s hypermobile, or very flexible, and able to bend backward beyond the normal range of motion. Known formally as distal hyperextensibility, this condition isn’t painful and doesn’t inhibit the thumb’s function in any way.

Is hypermobility linked to ADHD?

ADHD is also associated with generalised joint hypermobility: One study reported generalised hypermobility in 32% of 54 ADHD patients, compared to 14% of controls.

How far back can fingers bend?

These joints allow for fine motor control, and in most people can flex about 45 or 50 degrees, and more for some when the finger is fully bent. The DIP joint can also extend or bend backwards anywhere from 10 to 25 degrees. The most proximal finger joints are called the metacarpophalangeal joints, or MCP for short.