Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)

Tailored treatments for relieving pain and strengthening your joints

Living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) can feel overwhelming — but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Embody Health & Wellness, we offer thoughtful, personalized care that addresses the unique challenges of EDS, from joint instability and pain to fatigue and mobility issues. Our compassionate team takes the time to truly understand your needs and support your journey toward greater strength, stability, and ease in daily life.

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Learn more about Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) Pain

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a group of genetic connective tissue disorders characterized by joint hypermobility, skin hyperextensibility, and tissue fragility. While EDS can manifest in various ways and affect individuals differently, there are common signs and symptoms to be aware of. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management of the condition.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome:

  1. Joint Hypermobility: One of the hallmark features of EDS is joint hypermobility, which refers to the ability of joints to move beyond their normal range of motion. Individuals with EDS may have loose or unstable joints, leading to frequent dislocations, subluxations, and joint pain.
  2. Skin Hyperextensibility: Another characteristic feature of EDS is skin hyperextensibility, where the skin is unusually stretchy and may be fragile or prone to tearing. Stretchy skin can be particularly noticeable on areas such as the elbows, knees, and neck.
  3. Easy Bruising and Poor Wound Healing: Individuals with EDS may experience easy bruising and delayed wound healing due to fragile blood vessels and connective tissues. Minor injuries or trauma can result in excessive bruising or prolonged healing times.
  4. Chronic Pain: Chronic pain is a common symptom of EDS, affecting the joints, muscles, and connective tissues. Pain may be widespread or localized to specific areas and can vary in intensity from mild to severe. Joint pain, muscle stiffness, and headaches are commonly reported by individuals with EDS.
  5. Fatigue and Weakness: Fatigue and muscle weakness are frequently reported symptoms in individuals with EDS. Weakness may be related to muscle atrophy, joint instability, or reduced physical activity due to pain and fatigue.
  6. Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Some individuals with EDS may experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as acid reflux, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. These symptoms may be related to connective tissue abnormalities affecting the digestive tract.
  7. Cardiovascular Issues: In some cases, EDS can affect the cardiovascular system, leading to symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, and fainting spells. Individuals with EDS may have an increased risk of mitral valve prolapse, aortic root dilation, and other cardiac abnormalities.

How to Identify Symptoms of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome:

Identifying symptoms of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome can be challenging due to the variability in presentation and the overlap with other conditions. If you or a loved one experience any of the following symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical evaluation from a healthcare professional, preferably one familiar with EDS:

  • Frequent joint dislocations or subluxations
  • Stretchy or fragile skin
  • Easy bruising or slow wound healing
  • Chronic joint pain or muscle stiffness
  • Unexplained fatigue or weakness
  • Gastrointestinal issues
  • Cardiovascular symptoms

A comprehensive evaluation by a physician or geneticist, along with a detailed medical history and physical examination, can help determine whether further diagnostic testing, such as genetic testing or imaging studies, is warranted. Early diagnosis and intervention are key to managing EDS effectively and minimizing complications.

Physical therapy is a cornerstone of treatment for Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, focusing on improving joint stability, muscle strength, and overall function while minimizing pain and discomfort. Our experienced physical therapists specialize in developing customized treatment plans that address the unique challenges of EDS and help you achieve your goals. Here are some ways physical therapy can benefit individuals with EDS:

  1. Joint Stabilization: Individuals with EDS often experience joint hypermobility and instability, increasing the risk of dislocations, subluxations, and injuries. Physical therapy interventions, such as targeted strengthening exercises, proprioceptive training, and joint protection techniques, can help improve joint stability and reduce the risk of joint-related problems.
  2. Pain Management: Chronic pain is a common symptom of EDS, affecting the quality of life and daily functioning of individuals with the condition. Our physical therapists employ a variety of pain management techniques, including manual therapy, soft tissue mobilization, modalities such as heat or cold therapy, and therapeutic exercises to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve overall comfort.
  3. Functional Rehabilitation: EDS can impact your ability to perform daily activities and participate in recreational or occupational tasks. Our physical therapists focus on functional rehabilitation, designing exercise programs and movement strategies that promote safe and efficient movement patterns, enhance functional mobility, and optimize independence in daily life.
  4. Education and Self-Management Strategies: Education is a vital component of physical therapy for EDS, empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to manage their condition effectively. Our physical therapists provide education on joint protection techniques, activity modification, ergonomics, and self-care strategies to help you minimize symptoms, prevent injuries, and optimize your overall health and well-being.
  5. Collaborative Care: We understand that managing EDS often requires a multidisciplinary approach involving various healthcare providers. Our physical therapists work collaboratively with other members of your healthcare team, including physicians, orthopedic specialists, and occupational therapists, to ensure coordinated and comprehensive care that addresses all aspects of your condition.

Living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) can present unique challenges, affecting your joints, connective tissues, and overall mobility. At Dr. Megan Mullin Physical Therapy, we understand the complexities of EDS and are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective care to help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Here are some of the ways you can benefit from getting your EDS treated with physical therapy at our practice:

1. Customized Treatment Plans:

At Dr. Megan Mullin Physical Therapy, we recognize that EDS affects individuals differently and requires personalized care tailored to your specific needs and symptoms. Our experienced physical therapists will work closely with you to develop a customized treatment plan designed to address your unique challenges, optimize function, and enhance your overall well-being.

2. Pain Management and Symptom Relief:

Chronic pain is a common symptom of EDS, impacting your ability to perform daily activities and enjoy your favorite hobbies. Our physical therapy interventions focus on pain management and symptom relief, utilizing a variety of techniques such as manual therapy, soft tissue mobilization, modalities, and therapeutic exercises to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve your overall comfort.

3. Joint Stabilization and Strength Building:

Joint hypermobility and instability are hallmark features of EDS, increasing the risk of dislocations, subluxations, and injuries. Our physical therapists specialize in joint stabilization techniques and strength-building exercises designed to improve joint stability, enhance muscle strength, and reduce the risk of joint-related problems, allowing you to move more confidently and safely.

4. Improved Mobility and Function:

EDS can limit your range of motion and mobility, making it challenging to perform daily tasks and participate in activities you enjoy. Our physical therapy treatments aim to improve mobility, flexibility, and function in affected joints, enabling you to move more freely and engage in activities with greater ease and confidence.

5. Education and Self-Management Strategies:

Education is a vital component of physical therapy for EDS, empowering you with the knowledge and skills you need to manage your condition effectively. Our physical therapists will provide education on joint protection techniques, activity modification, ergonomic principles, and self-care strategies to help you minimize symptoms, prevent injuries, and optimize your overall health and well-being.

6. Comprehensive Care and Support:

At Dr. Megan Mullin Physical Therapy, we’re committed to providing comprehensive care and support to individuals with EDS. Our team of skilled professionals will guide you through every step of your rehabilitation journey, offering encouragement, guidance, and compassionate support along the way. We’ll work collaboratively with you to help you achieve your goals and improve your quality of life.

This physical therapy practice is like an oasis in a medical desert. This is the only place (that I know of) on the Central Coast that is educated about connective tissue disorders, especially Ehlers-Danlos-Syndrome. My PT was cheerful, very knowledgeable, and created a treatment plan to specifically work with my EDS. The office is great with communication! I have nothing but good things to say about this practice and highly recommend it. 10/10

– H. Hasslinger

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Wherever you are in your healing journey, we’re here to walk alongside you. Whether you have questions, want to learn more, or are ready to begin care, our team is just a call or message away. Reach out when you’re ready — we’d love to connect and help you take the next step toward feeling better in your body.

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