Double Jointed with ADHD? It’s Not a Coincidence.

On the school playground, did you delight and amaze friends by bending your fingers backward, putting your legs behind your head, or doing splits? These physical abilities are generally rare — but emerging research indicates an apparent link between hypermobility and neurodivergence.

A 2022 study of 109 adults with neurodevelopmental conditions found a higher prevalence of hypermobility (51%) in this group, much higher than the general population rate of 20%.¹ Generalized joint hypermobility was also more common in neurodivergent women, the study found — about 70% in this group versus about 23% in the comparison group.

Free Webinar Replay: Joint Hypermobility & Neurodivergence

Hypermobility is generally benign, however 1 in 10 people with joint hypermobility experience it as part of a larger medical condition, a hypermobility spectrum disorder (HSD). There are more than a dozen kinds of HSDs, including hypermobile Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (hEDS). Each is correlated with a broad range of symptoms, including joint pain, gastrointestinal issues, fatigue, anxiety, headaches, allergic symptoms, and dizziness. This wide variety of presentations makes managing an HSD complex and multi-layered. Recent research suggests that treatment for HSD symptoms may also benefit ADHD symptoms in people who have both conditions.

Here, ADDitude readers ADHD and hypermobility disorders explain how they navigated the winding, often exhausting, road of diagnosis, treatment, and day-to-day life with two conditions with far-reaching implications.

“I have joint hypermobility and mild inflammatory markers, and it took years before someone acknowledged the connection between my physical symptoms and ADHD. Eventually, I found a provider who understood how neurodivergence can affect pain perception, fatigue, and even immune response. I now manage both through a combination of physical therapy, low-inflammatory nutrition, ADHD meds, and a pacing strategy. It’s not perfect, but I feel seen and supported.” —Jessica, Wisconsin

“Recently, an occupational therapist traced a hand condition to joint hypermobility that affects everything from my fingers to my core muscles. It turns out that hypermobility makes it difficult to keep your core and back properly engaged while also putting abnormal strain on the muscle attachment points near the joints as they work overtime to compensate. My hand condition has improved greatly: body mapping and movement drills have already started making a significant difference in my day-to-day pain.” —Camron, Utah

[Read: The Surprising Association Between ADHD & Inflammation]

“I’ve been dismissed by medical professionals as ‘just overweight and anxious,’ and seen as a hypochondriac. I’m so used to being in chronic pain and not knowing why. Now that I have some idea of why, it’s hard to find providers near me who have specialized knowledge in my areas of need and will understand.” —Jamie, Michigan

“I have joint hypermobility and some non-allergic inflammatory symptoms. The traditional healthcare system can be frustrating to navigate with these types of issues — especially for aging women as hormones change, impacting joint health, gut health, and inflammation. It’s taken me years of frustration, persistence, and exploration to self-solve some of this. I take Claritin daily and I work out a lot; resistance training keeps my muscles and tendons aware of where I should be positioned in space.” —Jennifer, Utah

“I have inflammatory issues that a regular doctor doesn’t seem to understand are connected to ADHD, but through my own education, I’ve been able to handle symptoms effectively with antihistamines and lymphatic massage.” —Sarah, Michigan

[Read: ADHD at the Center: A Whole-Life – Whole-Person Condition]

“I have hEDS and my medical provider has been absolutely wonderful. She is my primary care doctor, fills both my Adderall and Effexor prescriptions no problem, and works with me constantly on my other health issues. She approaches my care from the perspective of, ‘your symptoms are real, regardless of your diagnosis.’ She is truly a gift.” —Skyler, Nevada

“It took more than 10 years to find doctors who believed me and helped me pursue a diagnosis of joint hypermobility. My doctor is an internal medicine specialist who tries to be helpful, even with limited experience, and encourages me to try treatments like compression wear and strength training. I’ve been referred to a specialist who knows more about hypermobility, and I’m hopeful he can offer more answers.”  —An ADDitude Reader in Canada

“I have joint pain that has not been acknowledged or treated. Despite joint swelling, it gets passed off as a symptom of depression.” —Helen, United Kingdom

“I found a great rheumatologist who has recommended many supportive items to help my joint hypermobility. She is supportive of my ADHD needs as well and understands the connection.” —Stephan, New York

“When I have asked my doctors about how my joint hypermobility might be affecting my health or mental health, they have looked at me blankly. My primary care doctor doesn’t seem to know how interconnected ADHD is with literally everything in my life. Unfortunately, there are no ADHD specialists where I live.” —An ADDitude Reader

“I do have inflammation in my upper shoulders; however, the treatments I seek are with separate providers. Wouldn’t it be nice someday to have a clinic that could treat the neurodivergent mind, body and soul!” —Ana, California

Hypermobility and ADHD: Next Steps

• Learn: When It’s Not Just ADHD – Symptoms of Comorbid Conditions
• Read: Heart Health and ADHD — On Cardiovascular Risks and Treatments
• Read: Migraines and ADHD – The Overlooked Connection to Headaches

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