Supportive Care for Neurodivergence & Hypermobility
Blossom Autism & Family Collective is proud to collaborate with the Norris Lab to spread awareness about Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and how it affects our neurodivergent community. Together, we are creating resources to help families navigate the complex intersection of joint hypermobility and neurodiversity.
The Neurodivergence & Hypermobility Connection
Research shows a significant overlap between hypermobility and neurodivergent populations, particularly among Autistic individuals and those with ADHD. When a child's connective tissue is more flexible, it can affect not just their joints, but also how their nervous system processes sensory information.
Common experiences include increased sensory sensitivity, challenges with proprioception (knowing where their body is in space), and higher levels of fatigue. Understanding this link helps caregivers provide more targeted, compassionate support that addresses both physical and neurological needs.
The Overlap: Hypermobility, Neurodiversity, and Daily Life
Understanding how physical traits like hypermobility and hypotonia intersect with neurodivergent experiences like Autism and ADHD helps caregivers provide more supportive, holistic care.
Neurodivergent Overlap
Many neurodivergent children also experience hypermobility. Common experiences include sensory processing differences, varied proprioception (knowing where your body is in space), and increased fatigue from the extra effort required to stabilize joints.
Hypotonia & Daily Life
Hypotonia (low muscle tone) often co-occurs with hypermobility. In daily life, this might look like 'W-sitting,' difficulty with fine motor tasks like buttoning shirts, or needing frequent breaks during physical play because muscles work harder to provide stability.
PT, OT & Diagnoses
Physical and Occupational Therapy help build functional strength and joint protection. These needs are key for children with Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD) or Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS), where the focus is on stability and functional movement.
The Intersection of Hypermobility & Neurodivergence
Research shows a significant overlap between hypermobility and neurodivergent populations, particularly those on the Autism spectrum or with ADHD. This connection often presents as body awareness challenges (proprioception). Managing loose joints can lead to increased fatigue and sensory processing needs. Understanding how Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD) and Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS) interface with neurodiversity is essential for supportive care.
The Role of Hypotonia
Hypotonia, or low muscle tone, frequently accompanies hypermobility. In daily life, this might look like a child who tires easily or has difficulty with fine motor tasks. Unlike muscle strength, tone is the 'readiness' of the muscle; when it’s low, the body works harder to stay upright and move. Supportive strategies focus on building functional stability.
Therapeutic Support (PT & OT)
Physical Therapy (PT) focuses on stability and joint protection, while Occupational Therapy (OT) helps manage daily living activities and sensory integration. Together, these services provide a balanced approach to managing hypermobility. Our supportive strategies help caregivers navigate these needs with confidence.