This month at 4U Pilates and Wellbeing, we’re talking all about healthy feet. Did you know that foot function involves 26 bones, over 30 small joints and over 100 muscles, tendons and ligaments?
These structures are bound together by connective tissue - it supports them and allows them to do their job properly. Connective tissue disorders can have serious ripple effects.
What is hypermobility?
We all know someone who is super flexible - someone who can bend their thumb back to their wrist or defy the normal restrictions of our joints. This is known as hypermobility or double-jointedness, affecting about 10 to 25% of the population.
While it can appear to be a gift, hypermobility actually destabilises joints and can hinder their proper function. In this case, it is considered a disorder and needs to be managed.
Hypermobility is one of the symptoms of Ehlers Danlos Syndrome - a genetic condition that affects the body’s connective tissue, making it more stretchy and fragile.
How does hypermobility affect your feet?
Hypermobility and connective tissue disorders put extra pressure on the foot’s supporting structures. Over time, this impairs proper foot function and makes injury, sprains, strains and arthritis more likely.
What can I do to help manage hypermobility
Hypermobility and connective tissue disorders can be managed. A specialist will be able to recommend exercises to build strength and body awareness.
You can read more about hypermobility on these websites:
To learn more about your own foot health and function book a session with Zoisa.
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