Physical Therapy for Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)

As so many Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) patients can tell you, looking good on the outside does not always equate to feeling good on the inside. So many people with EDS feel lost and alone. Even with the best intentions, physical therapists, chiropractors and trainers who are not knowledgeable about EDS may cause their patients injury or even more pain.

The Ehlers-Danlose syndromes are a group of 13 heritable connective tissue disorders. The conditions are caused by genetic changes that affect connective tissue. Each type of EDS has its own set of features with distince diagnostic criteria. Some features are seen across all types of EDS, including joint hypermobility, skin hyperextensibility, and tissue fragility.

With my current work in Bethesda Physiocare, a Physical Therapy clinic recognized by the Ehlers-Danlos Society to be an EDS Center of Excellence, I have the privilege of working alongside some of the nations leading experts in EDS. I also have the distinction of being listed in the Ehlers-Danlos society as a healthcare professional.

Recently, I have been recognized as an Expert in EDS by The International Consortium on Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders Steering Committee.

Let’s bridge the gap between hypermobility and function.

What are Typical Treatments you Use for EDS?

  • Education, education, education

  • Dry Needling (EDS patients are typically riddled with trigger points that cause pain and dysfunction)

  • Stability Exercises

  • Breathwork

  • IASTM/Graston

  • Progressive cardio

  • External Focus training

Physical Therapy for Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome in Baltimore and Parkville

How is EDS Diagnosed?

EDS can only be diagnosed by a health care professional. EDS is diagnosed through a combination of tests and intake questions, which can include:

  • Beighton Score (a test to determine laxity of the pinky, thumbs, elbows, knees and spine).

  • A skin assessment (typically EDS skin is unusually soft and/or velvety

  • Skin hyperextensibility

  • Unexplained stretch marks

  • Piezogenic papules

  • Recurrent or multiple abdominal hernia(s)

  • Atrophic Scarring

  • Pelvic floor, rectal and/or uterine prolapse

  • Dental crowding and high or narrow palate

  • Arachnodactyly (long fingers)

  • Arm span to height ratio

  • Presence of Mitral Valve prolapse

  • Aortic root dilatation

  • Positive family history

  • Musculoskeletal pain

  • Chronic, widespread pain for >3 months

  • Recurrent joint dislocations in the absence of trauma

  • Skin fragility

  • Other acquired connective tissue disorders

  • Genetic testing is available for several forms of EDS, excluding the hypermobile EDS population.