Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)
Physical therapy plays a crucial role in managing Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (also known as the hypermobility spectrum, (hEDS) by focusing on strengthening muscles, improving joint stability, and enhancing proprioception to reduce the risk of dislocations and injuries. It helps individuals with EDS learn proper body mechanics and adaptive strategies to manage pain and optimize function.
From the EDS Society website, "Medical students have been taught to look for the more common and usual diagnosis, not the unexpected one. “WHEN YOU HEAR HOOFBEATS, DON'T EXPECT A ZEBRA.” The zebra became our symbol because those with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and hypermobility spectrum disorder are the unexpected"
Many times those with chronic pain due to hypermobility are often overlooked and/or missed by primary care doctors. Symptoms can appear unrelated at first and many times genetic tests don't show anything. There's very few providers who see this as well. Finding a provider who you trust and that can guide you along the way is important. . Many times people will misdiagnosed with fibromyalgia. Hypermobility conditions like EDS can present unique challenges, including joint instability, chronic pain, and decreased functional abilities. Hypermobility is a large spectrum which affects every individual differently. Below are some signs and symptoms of EDS:
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Joint hypermobility: Excessive flexibility in joints, leading to frequent dislocations or subluxations.
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Joint pain: Chronic, often debilitating pain in joints due to instability and tissue fragility.
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Skin hyperextensibility: Stretchy, fragile skin that is prone to tearing, bruising, and scarring.
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Easy bruising: Increased susceptibility to bruising and bleeding due to fragile blood vessels.
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Chronic fatigue: Persistent tiredness and exhaustion that may interfere with daily activities.
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Gastrointestinal issues: Digestive problems such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), constipation, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
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Cardiovascular complications: Risk of blood vessel fragility, leading to issues like orthostatic intolerance, palpitations, and arterial aneurysms.
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Dental and oral health problems: Dental crowding, gum disease, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction.
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Autonomic dysfunction: Dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system, resulting in symptoms like dizziness, fainting, and temperature dysregulation.
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Psychological issues: Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges often associated with chronic pain and physical limitations.
Logan specializes in treating those on the hypermobility spectrum from all sides of the spectrum. As someone with hypermobility and chronic pain herself, she can relate to some of the symptoms and guide you along the journey of managing your pain. Logan looks to find the patterns and find out what your body responds to. Using a combination of movement, hands on therapy, trigger point dry needling, and strength and conditioning, Logan can help you navigate your journey on living with EDS. Logan can help you navigate the medical system as well and get you to the right people.
Curious about learning more about EDS and how physical therapy can help? Click below to book your free call with Logan!