Hypermobility syndromes in children and adolescents: assessment, diagnosis and multidisciplinary management

Background
Managing children and adolescents with syndromic hypermobility and their parents is challenging in the context of a standard consultation. The multi-organ involvement of the syndromes, the evolving classification criteria and their highly heterogeneous presentation complicate both diagnosis and management.

Objective
The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the diagnosis, management and support of children with hypermobility syndromes, including the role of the multidisciplinary team and common associated features.

Discussion
Optimising the quality of life of people with syndromic hypermobility begins with the early identification of their signs and symptoms. Diagnosis, ideally by adolescence, provides affected children and their parents with validation and directs their focus to management aimed at mitigating the socioeconomic, educational and health-related quality of life impact of these conditions.