Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Hypermobility, and Physical Therapy
At CGPT, we understand that living with hypermobility/Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) comes with unique challenges. Our expert team of physical therapists specializes in providing comprehensive care tailored to individuals managing these conditions. With a deep knowledge of hypermobility-related issues, we focus on helping build strength, improve joint stability, and enhance quality of life.
Our physical therapists bring more than just professional expertise-they have personal experience with hypermobility themselves, allowing them to provide compassionate, informed care. We understand the complexities of EDS, including co-existing conditions such as dysautonomia, including postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), brain fog, and fatigue. We take a holistic approach to help manage symptoms.
What is Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS)?
Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a group of rare genetic disorders that affect the connective tissues in the body, including skin, joints, and blood vessels. These connective tissues provide support to various body structures and organs. EDS is characterized by hypermobility (excessive movement) of the joints, skin that is easily bruised and hyperextensible, and a tendency to scar easily.
How Can Physical Therapy Help with EDS and Hypermobility?
Physical therapy plays a critical role in managing the symptoms of EDS and hypermobility. A trained physical therapist can:
- Strengthen Muscles: This helps to stabilize hypermobile joints, reducing the risk of dislocations or injuries. It is important that exercise is performed with special attention to the placement of the joints to avoid triggering severe pain the next day. We also are aware of the proper resistance and repetitions that are unique to those who are hypermobile and/or have a connective tissue disorder.
- Improve Balance and Coordination: Proprioception is the ability to determine where the body is in space. This often is very limited in those with hypermobility. Often people with hypermobility are considered clumsy, trip for no reason, or frequently bump into furniture and walls unexpectedly. Specialized training that addresses this is key to improving the ability to perform everyday tasks safely and with less pain. This is also important to avoid frequent dislocations.
- Educate on Joint Protection: Hypermobile joints tend to go into places they don't belong. The problem is they don't send any warning signals until later or the next day when joint pain becomes intense. Learning joint protection is vital for self management and being able to perform everyday tasks with fewer symptoms.
- Provide Recovery Management Techniques: Flare ups are inevitable when living life with hypermobility or a connective tissue disorder. We teach techniques to lessen the intensity of flare ups and recover quicker. This includes using heat, ice, taping, bracing, and joint protection techniques.
We are committed to empowering our patients on their journey toward better health, helping them regain control, reduce pain, decrease doctor visits, and improve daily function. We believe our hypermobile patients when they tell us about their unusual symptoms, we know "it's not all in their head."
Looking for some quick pain relief? Watch our sleeping position video for some quick tips on better sleeping positions to help with joint pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can physical therapy cure EDS?
No, physical therapy cannot cure EDS as it's a genetic condition. However, it can significantly help manage symptoms and improve the quality of life.
Is it safe for someone with EDS to exercise?
Yes, but it's essential to work with a knowledgeable physical therapist to ensure exercises are safe and beneficial.
How often should someone with EDS see a physical therapist?
The frequency depends on the individual's needs and goals. Some might benefit from weekly sessions, while others may need less frequent visits.
Will braces or supports be beneficial?
Braces can be helpful for some individuals to provide joint support. A physical therapist can guide on the appropriate use of these aids.
Can children with EDS benefit from physical therapy?
Absolutely. Early intervention can help children develop strength and good habits that will benefit them throughout their lives.
Contact us today to schedule your initial evaluation and take the first step towards improved health and wellbeing.
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