Ligamentous laxity

[justanothergymmom]

My DD2 has always been very flexible but on a recent trip to the ortho (which was a follow-up to an injury) he told us that she has loose ligaments. Both ankles over-pronate (I think I am saying this right). She also has crazy backward bends in her elbows, is able to bend her pinky fingers backwards, thumbs forwards and put both hands flat on the ground when bending at the waist. She doesn't appear to have loose ligaments in her knees though.

I am wondering what this all means in regards to her training in the gym and continuing in the sport up through the levels. She is a L6 right now. The doctor said it can be both an advantage and a disadvantage for a gymnast. He said building extra strenghth in her muscles may help to compensate for loose ligaments in some areas (like in her arms), but I am mostly concerned about her ankles.

She will begin pt next week to help rebuild her calf muscle that is pretty much non-existent after being in a boot for about the last 6 weeks, so I plan to talk to the therapist then. I was just wondering if any coaches, parents or gymnasts had experience condition. Thanks!

 

[Deleted member D3987]

ligament lax is not a big deal. you are prone to just as many injuries as someone that is not. carry on with training.

 

[justanothergymmom]

ligament lax is not a big deal. you are prone to just as many injuries as someone that is not. carry on with training.

Thanks dunno. Have you ever seen someone be able to correct the over-pronation issue? She is able to walk properly (not on the inside of her foot) when she makes an effort to distribute the weight accross her foot, but it feels strange to her.

 

[UnoMas]

My daughter has this. She wears inserts in her shoes when she walks long distances or has PE or runs. It helps keep her feet from hurting. All her joints are loose, her elbows do crazy things when she bears weight and she is VERY flexible in her back. I have asked numerous doctors and therapists and they all say she is at no more risk than anyone else for getting hurt. So...she just keeps on going! She is L4 and has been on team gymnastics for 2 years (she is 7).

 

[Deleted member D3987]

Thanks dunno. Have you ever seen someone be able to correct the over-pronation issue? She is able to walk properly (not on the inside of her foot) when she makes an effort to distribute the weight accross her foot, but it feels strange to her.

nope. only surgery can change what you have been born with. orthotics can help in some people. and tape works for some in work out. my experience has taught me that in gods/evolutions way the body adapts and compensates.