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While joint pain is the most common symptom associated with Hypermobility Syndrome (HMS), HMS can affect other systems in the body. As a result, many HMS patients suffer from digestive problems - constipation, heart burn, diarrhea, IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), nausea, vomiting, delayed stomach emptying, Hiatal hernias, early satiety, and severe abdominal pain. These problems are all related to the underlying collagen defect responsible for HMS. Collagen is an important building block for all soft-tissue, and your GI track is one of the longest stretches of soft tissue in your body, which is an invitation for trouble. Just like in your joints, this collagen defect makes the connective tissues in your stomach stretchier than they should be, which makes it harder for your stomach to pass food. As Dr. Brad Tinkle explains in his book, Joint Hypermobility Handbook, "the increased laxity of the connective tissue [in the stomach] results in more difficulty for the muscles to contract...

Hi everybody! I wanted to let you all know that I have really appreciated your comments, I love hearing your stories and suggestions for things you would like to see on the blog. I have, however, been having trouble accessing each poster's contact information, which means I have not been able to respond to many posts. If you have a question you would like answered, or just need some general advice, I would suggest contacting me directly via email at elsesmith@gmail.com. That way I can respond to you in a quicker, more personalized manner. I can't wait to hear from you! Love and Hope, Chelsea

Doctor Bradly Tinkle, author of two great books on Hypermobility Syndrome - Issues and Management of Joint Hypermobility, and Joint Hypermobility Handbook - has recently released an app on iTunes. The app is called 'JHDiagnosis' and can be found in the Utilities category in the app store - it is most easily found by simply searching for the word 'hypermobility' in iTunes. This app takes you step by step through the Beighton Criteria, the most authoritative test used to diagnose generalized joint hypermobility or laxity. The app features pictures of each movement tested, an explanation of how the Beighton Criteria is used, and narration by Dr. Brad Tinkle himself. The app also includes movements not included on the official Beighton criteria, but which are extremely useful when trying to diagnose HMS. I would highly recommend that every HMS patient download this app (compatible with iPhone and iPad and its free!) to learn a little bit more about the condition. Then, bri...