Hypermobility
Hypermobility means your joints move beyond their typical range of motion — often described as being "double-jointed." When this affects the feet and ankles, it can contribute to pain, instability and changes in the way you walk and run. For some people it causes no trouble at all, while for others it leads to recurring sprains, fatigue and aching joints.
What is hypermobility?
Hypermobility is increased flexibility in one or more joints. It exists on a spectrum, from a single mobile joint through to generalised joint hypermobility affecting the whole body. In the feet and ankles, the extra "give" in the ligaments can reduce the natural support of your arches and make the joints harder to stabilise.
What causes hypermobility?
Hypermobility is often an inherited trait passed down through families and is linked to the structure of your connective tissue and the laxity of your ligaments. In some cases it is associated with underlying connective tissue conditions such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome or Marfan syndrome [1]. More commonly, though, it simply reflects naturally looser ligaments without any wider medical condition.
What are the common symptoms?
In the feet and ankles, hypermobility may present as:
- Joint pain or aching, particularly after activity
- A feeling of instability, or frequent ankle sprains
- Flatter feet or arches that flatten more than expected under load
- Fatigue and a sense of muscle weakness
- Difficulties with balance and coordination
These symptoms can vary from mild to more limiting, and they often respond well to a structured, supportive plan.
How does Blueprint Podiatry assess and manage hypermobility?
Our podiatry team — three registered podiatrists, each trained in Foot Mobilisation Therapy and qualified as a Level 1 Running Coach — begins with a thorough assessment. Because every one of our podiatrists is a certified running coach, we offer genuine gait and running analysis to see how your feet and ankles behave while you actually move, not just standing still.
From there, management focuses on reducing symptoms, improving joint stability and lowering the risk of injury. Your plan may include:
- A targeted strengthening and proprioception (balance) program for the muscles supporting your feet and ankles
- Custom orthotics, designed from a weightbearing 3D scan and 3D printed in-house, so left and right devices are patient-matched to your feet — without the usual external-lab delay
- Footwear guidance and, where appropriate, supportive bracing
- Additional clinic services such as foot mobilisation therapy, dry needling or shockwave therapy where clinically suitable
Our goal is always to help you move more comfortably and confidently, with a plan built around your activity goals.
When should you seek help?
It's worth booking an assessment if you have ongoing foot or ankle pain, repeated ankle sprains, a sense of "giving way," or if hypermobility is affecting your sport, work or daily activities. Early, tailored support can make a real difference.
Citations
[1] Tinkle B et al. Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (a.k.a. Ehlers-Danlos syndrome Type III and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome hypermobility type): Clinical description and natural history. Am J Med Genet C Semin Med Genet. 2017. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28145611/
Medically reviewed by Matt Shanahan, registered podiatrist (AHPRA POD0001603396), Blueprint Podiatry.
Last reviewed: 21 June 2026.
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Frequently asked questions
Can custom orthotics help with hypermobile feet?
For many people, yes — custom orthotics can provide additional support and improve stability when arches flatten under load. At Blueprint Podiatry, orthotics are designed from a weightbearing 3D scan and 3D printed in-house, with left and right devices matched to your individual feet. We'll discuss whether they suit your situation as part of your assessment.
I keep rolling my ankle — could hypermobility be the cause?
Recurring ankle sprains and a feeling of instability can be linked to ligament laxity. A thorough assessment, including gait and running analysis, helps us understand what's happening and build a plan that may include strengthening, balance work and supportive footwear or orthotics.
Will I need a referral to see a podiatrist for hypermobility?
No referral is needed to book with us directly. If you're accessing care through a Medicare EPC plan, DVA, NDIS or workers compensation, different requirements may apply — our team is happy to guide you when you book.
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