The discovery could mean specific treatments to “greatly improve quality of life”.
A group of researchers from Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS), the University of Sussex and other associated partners have revealed a connection between joint hypermobility syndrome and anxiety disorders.
Brain response reveals the link
Using MRI scanning to investigate the brain activity of people with and without joint hypermobility as they processed emotional facial expressions, researchers discovered stronger responses from hypermobile individuals in a brain region involved in attention and self-awareness.
The research, published on 3rd February, builds on what is already known about mental health and connective tissue disorders.
Study leader, Dr Jessica Eccles, commented: “This understanding opens the door to targeted treatments that could greatly improve quality of life.”
