Hypermobile Joints, Dizziness and a Racing Heart: Could They Be Connected?

written by Eden Lee - Physiotherapist -

Have you been told that you have hypermobile joints?

Do you sometimes experience a sudden racing heartbeat for no obvious reason? Or feel dizzy or lightheaded when you stand up from a chair or get out of bed?

You might be wondering whether these symptoms are connected to your hypermobility.

For some people, they can be.

What is hypermobility?

Hypermobility means that your joints can move further than the usual range of movement. You might have heard people describe this as being “double-jointed”.

Some people with hypermobile joints have no symptoms at all. Others may experience a range of difficulties, including:

• Joint and muscle pain: Aching, discomfort or feeling that your joints are less stable.

• Fatigue and brain fog: Feeling unusually tired or finding it harder to concentrate.

• Digestive problems: Symptoms such as bloating, nausea, constipation or diarrhoea.

• Dizziness and a racing heart: Particularly when standing up or remaining upright for a period of time.

Not everyone with hypermobility experiences these symptoms, and they can have several different causes.

What does your nervous system have to do with it?

Your autonomic nervous system helps control automatic functions in your body, including your heart rate, blood pressure and digestion.

It has two main branches:

• The sympathetic nervous system: Helps your body respond to activity, stress and potential danger. It is often called the “fight-or-flight” system.

• The parasympathetic nervous system: Helps your body rest, recover and carry out functions such as digestion.

These systems work together to keep your body balanced.

In some people with hypermobility, the systems that regulate heart rate and blood pressure may not respond as effectively as they should. This can contribute to symptoms such as dizziness, a racing heart and fatigue.

One condition associated with these symptoms is postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). POTS can cause an unusually large increase in heart rate when moving into an upright position, often alongside symptoms such as lightheadedness, weakness or fatigue.

However, having hypermobility does not automatically mean you have POTS. A racing heart or dizziness can have other causes, so it is important to speak with your GP if these symptoms occur regularly.

Could a simple breathing exercise help?

Here is something you can try at home: gentle, controlled breathing.

Slow breathing may help some people feel calmer and support the body's natural relaxation response. It may also help you become more aware of how you breathe and manage tension.

Although breathing exercises are not a cure for hypermobility, POTS or digestive problems, they can be a useful part of a broader approach to wellbeing.

Try this simple breathing exercise

1. Find a comfortable position, either sitting with support or lying down.

2. Breathe in gently through your nose.

3. Let your abdomen expand naturally as you breathe in, without forcing it.

4. Breathe out slowly through your mouth, allowing the breath to leave comfortably.

5. Repeat for one to two minutes, keeping your breathing relaxed and natural.

Remember: You do not need to take an extremely deep breath or hold your breath. Stop if you feel dizzy, breathless or uncomfortable. If you experience dizziness when standing, try the exercise lying down or in a supported sitting position.

Everyone responds differently, so this exercise may help you relax, but it will not necessarily improve every symptom.

How can physiotherapy help?

If you have hypermobility and are struggling with joint pain, fatigue or difficulties with everyday activities, a physiotherapist can help you explore suitable management strategies.

Depending on your individual needs, this may include:

• Exercises to improve strength and joint control.

• Gradual activity planning to help manage fatigue.

• Breathing and relaxation strategies.

• Advice on pacing activities and managing symptoms.

• Guidance on when further assessment by your GP or another health professional may be appropriate.

The goal is to help you move with greater confidence and manage your symptoms in a way that suits your body.

Do you have hypermobility and want to learn more about managing your symptoms?

Contact our clinic to discuss your concerns and find out whether physiotherapy may be appropriate for you.

Please note: This article is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. If you experience recurrent palpitations or dizziness, speak with your GP. Seek urgent medical attention for symptoms such as chest pain, fainting during exercise, severe shortness of breath or a sustained rapid or irregular heartbeat.