Generalized joint hypermobility: An issue in fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome?

Joint hypermobility is defined as an increased mobility of small and large joints beyond the range of motion considered normal. Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) are diagnostically different but overlapping disorders. Several researchers have examined the possible association between generalized joint hypermobility and chronic widespread muscle/joint pain in both FMS and CFS subjects. The present manuscript provides the reader with an overview of the published data addressing generalized joint hypermobility in FMS and CFS, with special emphasis on assessment strategy, prevalence, clinical importance, and conservative treatment. From the available scientific literature, it is concluded that generalized joint hypermobility is more common in both FMS and CFS patients compared to healthy volunteers.