Definition:

• The Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a group of connective tissue disorders that can be inherited. They are generally characterized by joint hypermobility (joints that stretch further than normal), skin hyperextensibility (skin that can be stretched further than normal), and tissue fragility. EDS is currently classified into thirteen subtypes.
• Hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD) are a group of conditions related to joint hypermobility (JH). HSD is intended to be diagnosed after other possible answers are excluded, such as any of the Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS). It can exist by itself or be a part of a more complex diagnosis.
• EDS symptoms may include 1) Joint hypermobility; loose/unstable joints that are prone to frequent dislocations and/or subluxations; joint pain; hyperextensible joints (they move beyond the joint’s normal range); early onset of osteoarthritis. 2) Soft velvety-like skin; variable skin hyperextensibility; fragile skin that tears or bruises easily (bruising may be severe); severe scarring; slow and poor wound healing; development of molluscoid pseudotumors (fleshy lesions associated with scars over pressure areas). 3) Other symptoms may include chronic, early-onset, debilitating musculoskeletal pain (usually associated with the Hypermobility Type); arterial/intestinal/uterine fragility or rupture (usually associated with the Vascular Type); scoliosis at birth and scleral fragility (associated with the Kyphoscoliosis Type); poor muscle tone (associated with the Arthrochalasia Type); mitral valve prolapse; and gum disease.
• HSD symptoms include 1) joint hypermobility of different degrees. 2) macro trauma includes dislocation, subluxations, and connected soft tissue damage. 3) chronic Pain 4) disturbed proprioception 5) other musculoskeletal traits such as flat feet (flexible type), misaligned bones in the elbow and big toes, mild to moderate scoliosis (side-to-side curvature of the spine), kyphosis (outward curvature) of the upper spine and lordosis (inner curvature) of the lower spine.
• Other associated disorders include anxiety disorders, dizziness, vertigo, migraine headaches, POTS (postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome), MCAS (mast cell activation syndrome), a variety of functional gastrointestinal disorders, migraine headaches, and pelvic and bladder dysfunction.
• Prevalence of EDS is estimated at 1 in 2,500 to 1 in 5,000 people and may even be more common
• There are two known EDS inheritance patterns for the Ehlers-Danlos syndromes including autosomal dominant and autosomal recessive.

Treatment:

Environment/LifeStyle/Diet

• See a physical therapist for recommendations on appropriate exercise, assistance devices, etc.
• Avoid physical trauma, physical stress, and repetitive traumas.
• Choose sports wisely. Walking, swimming, tai chi, recreational biking, using an elliptical machine or a stationary bike are all good choices.
• Avoid contact sports, weightlifting, and other activities that increase your risk of injury. Minimize stress on your hips, knees, and ankles.
• Rest your jaw. To protect your jaw joint, avoid chewing gum, hard rolls, and ice. Take breaks during dental work to close your mouth.
• Avoid certain musical instruments. To prevent a collapsed lung, avoid playing a reeded wind or brass instruments. A violin, viola, or piano would be safer options and would take advantage of the increased flexibility of your hands.
• prevent skin breakage, protect it from damage, and potentially speed wound healing

Effective treatment may include lifestyle changes, medications, and supplements.