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Warning-sign checks

Hypermobile joints: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Get emergency help after an injury if:

    • A joint is visibly out of position
    • The affected limb becomes pale, blue, cold, numb, or weak
    • There is severe bleeding, a major wound, or exposed bone
    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Arrange prompt medical advice after a new injury if you cannot use the joint normally, cannot put weight on it, or have marked swelling.

    Seek same-day care for a joint that becomes hot, red, very swollen, and painful, especially with fever or feeling very unwell.

    This is not a usual feature of hypermobility and may indicate infection or another inflammatory problem.

    Keep it supported and seek urgent care.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Book a routine appointment if joint symptoms keep returning, limit sleep or daily activities, or make work, school, or exercise difficult.

    Assessment is also appropriate for repeated sprains, subluxations, dislocations, falls, or pain that is not settling.

The article also says

Do not repeatedly force a displaced joint back into position.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Hypermobile joints. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.