London, England – People with hypermobile joints may face a higher risk of experiencing long Covid and persistent fatigue, according to recent research. Hypermobility refers to an abnormal range of motion in one’s joints due to differences in connective tissues. While some individuals with hypermobility remain healthy, others may encounter issues such as increased pain, fatigue, joint injuries, and digestive problems.
A study conducted by Dr. Jessica Eccles from the University of Sussex, alongside researchers from King’s College London, explored the connection between hypermobility and conditions like myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) and fibromyalgia. The team examined data from over 3,000 participants in the Covid symptom study to investigate the impact of hypermobile joints on Covid recovery and persistent fatigue.
Published in BMJ Public Health, the research revealed that individuals with hypermobile joints were approximately 30% more likely to report incomplete recovery from Covid-19 and were more prone to experiencing high levels of fatigue. Although the study does not confirm a causal relationship between hypermobility and illness, there is a plausible mechanism linking it to symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and postural tachycardia syndrome.
Dr. Eccles emphasized the potential association between hypermobility and conditions such as ADHD, autism, ME/CFS, and fibromyalgia, suggesting that fatigue could be a consequence of these connections. This insight may lead to the development of improved treatments for a subset of individuals experiencing long Covid and related symptoms.
The study underscores the need to recognize a subgroup of people with long Covid who are more likely to be hypermobile, highlighting the importance of identifying individuals who may benefit from targeted interventions. By understanding the link between hypermobility and long Covid, researchers aim to offer more effective strategies for managing symptoms and promoting recovery in affected individuals.