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<p class="description description_0">Did you ever have a friend that could bend his thumb all the way back to his wrist or can you do it yourself? If so, you've witnessed at least one effect of being "double jointed." The term double jointed describes a condition known as hypermobility syndrome, or excessive joint laxity. It simply means that certain individuals are able to bend their joints and the surrounding structures more so than an average person can.</p>

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<h2 class="subHeader">HYPERMOBILITY SYNDROME</h2>
<p class="description description_1">Individuals with HMS do not possess a greater or lesser amount of bones or joints than the rest of the population. The condition is actually quite common. HMS is most widespread in young children, although it becomes more rare during the aging and development process, according to the Mayo Clinic website.</p>

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<h2 class="subHeader">HEALTH CONCERNS</h2>
<p class="description description_2">Hypermobility may cause no negative symptoms at all. In some cases, it may be associated with pain in the joints, muscles or spine. It may also increase the risk for osteoporosis, sprains and similar bone-related disorders. HMS itself does not pose harm to the body; however, the potential for health complications arises when it exists due to genetic mutations such as Ehlers-Danlos or Marfan’s syndromes. Individuals with either syndrome should undergo genetic testing or screening for complications.</p>

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<h2 class="subHeader">HMS AND FREESTYLE SWIMMING</h2>
<p class="description description_3">There are many benefits to physical exercise -- increased muscle strength, lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of disease prevention, to name a few. Just like others, persons with HMS can reap the benefits of regular exercise. As a whole, swimming is an excellent form of aerobic conditioning for those with HMS, since it reduces the risk of joint stress; however, it does not come without risk.</p>

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<h2 class="subHeader">TECHNIQUE MODIFICATIONS</h2>
<p class="description description_4">To avoid self-injury, persons with HMS should implement certain technique modifications while in the water. For example, such individuals should avoid hyperextending their knees when kicking the pool water. As they swim, they should keep their elbows bent a bit to avoid “locking.” Those with weak shoulders should avoid certain exercises, such as the “pull” or “arms-only” techniques.</p>

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