Hypermobility and extended knees

[Guest guest]

Hi Jimmy,

When I started going to doctors for foot pain (outer left edge of left foot -

peroneal tendon) the one thing they did was a test for hypermobility - I think

there are 8 signs, and I had seven. I was classified as having benign

hypermobility.

Normally this does not mean much of anything - except that you have to make sure

that your muscles are strong to prevent hyper-extension, when if sudden can lead

to tears and rips.

Now, looking back in time I have always had hyper-extending knees, in fact knees

that dislocate. My doctors have always said my quadriceps were weak. The

combination of the two has now meant that I am prone to getting " jumpers knee " -

an insertion tendonitis where the tendon meets the bottom of the knee. And also

I have an unusual tendency to use my hamstrings rather than quads to do long

walks due to injuries and favouring one muscle group over another years and

years ago.

The end result is that in physio therapy in the UK (I did a whole series of

going to doctors to get fit - in my case to do a marathon, but I think in any of

our cases a total approach to the body is best) the doctors told me that I MUST

do quad lifts and minor weights to stop the atrophy of my quads - they believe

that even with CMT that an atrophy can be halted / reversed with a consistent

programme of training. And basically with stronger quads, your hamstrings do

not pull your knee back causing hyper extension.

Now the only problem I have is following all the wonderful advice I have

received! But I keep trying and persisting and hopefully one day will be

stronger inside and out due to the challenges of CMT.

All the best from London,

Donna