Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder are Connective Tissue Disorders
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a group of connective tissue disorders that affect the skin, joints, and blood vessels. It is caused by genetic variations that weaken connective tissues. EDS encompasses a group of 13 subtypes, each with its own set of symptoms.
Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders are a group of conditions associated with joint hypermobility. HSD is diagnosed after other potential conditions, such as EDS, have been ruled out.
Many symptoms overlap across the different types due to the shared involvement of connective tissue. This list represents the full spectrum of symptoms experienced by individuals with EDS and HSD. However, the severity and combination of symptoms can vary significantly based on the specific subtype and the individual.
Skin Symptoms
- Hyperelasticity (Stretchy Skin): Skin that stretches more than normal.
- Fragile Skin: Tendency for skin to tear or bruise easily.
- Slow Wound Healing: Delayed healing of cuts or injuries, often leading to scarring.
- Atrophic Scarring: Thin, sunken scars that may widen over time.
- Easy Bruising: Frequent and unexplained bruising.
Joint Symptoms
- Joint Hypermobility: Joints that move beyond the normal range of motion.
- Joint Instability: Frequent joint dislocations or subluxations (partial dislocations).
- Chronic Pain: Persistent pain in joints and muscles due to instability.
- Early-Onset Osteoarthritis: Joint degeneration occurring earlier than usual.
- Muscle Weakness: Poor muscle tone (hypotonia), especially in infants and children.
Cardiovascular Symptoms
- Fragile Blood Vessels: Increased risk of rupture, especially in vascular EDS (vEDS).
- Heart Valve Problems: Such as mitral valve prolapse or aortic root dilation.
- Easy Bleeding: Due to fragile blood vessels and delayed clotting.
Mast Cell Activation
- Increased Mast cell activation (MCAS)
- Sensitivity to various triggers such as stress, envoronmental, infections, medications
- Symptoms throughout all systems (MCAS symptoms list)
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Chronic abdominal pain, bloating, and irregular bowel movements.
- Gastroparesis: Delayed stomach emptying, causing nausea or vomiting.
- Hernias: Such as hiatal or inguinal hernias.
- Gallbladder: biliary dyskinesia and gallstones
Neurological Symptoms
- Autonomic Nervous System dysregulation
- Headaches and Migraines: Often linked to cervical instability or muscle tension.
- Dysautonomia: Dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, causing symptoms like fainting, dizziness, or rapid heartbeat (e.g., POTS).
- Chiari Malformation: Structural issues at the base of the skull affecting the brain and spinal cord.
- Nerve Compression Syndromes: Such as carpal tunnel or thoracic outlet syndrome.
Musculoskeletal Symptoms
- Flat Feet: Loss of foot arch due to joint laxity.
- Scoliosis or Kyphosis: Abnormal curvature of the spine.
- Spinal Instability: Increased risk of spinal injuries.
- Frequent Sprains and Strains: Due to joint instability and weak connective tissues.
- Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Dysfunction: Jaw pain and clicking.
Other General Symptoms
- Chronic Fatigue: Persistent fatigue unrelated to activity level.
- Myopia and other eye problems
- Pregnancy Complications: Including uterine rupture or preterm labor in severe cases.
GWCIM approach to EDS treatment and management
An integrative medicine approach to Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) focuses on addressing the condition holistically, targeting symptoms, improving quality of life, and preventing complications. GWCIM’s Medical Director, Ashley Drapeau, PA-C, LAc, and Mikhail Kogan, MD, CMO, are the leading EDS specialists at GWCIM. Our team, along with affiliated providers and trusted partners, collaborates to provide a comprehensive and supportive treatment approach. We offer a comprehensive functional assessment and treatment, and recommend a set of best supportive modalities of Integrative Medicine.
- 1. Physical Therapy and Movement-Based Therapies: specialized Physical Therapy, Reformer Pilates program, therapeutic yoga, QiGong.
- Pain Management Therapies: herbal remedies, acupuncture, massage, myofascial release, medical cannabis.
- Functional medicine and Nutrition: Anti-Inflammatory Diet and digestive support, supplements, intravenous (IV) therapy, NAD+ injections, and more
- Mind-Body Therapies: Biofeedback, Somatic Experiencing, Mindfulness, and Meditation
- Lifestyle Modifications: Posture Training, Pacing and Energy Management, Sleep Management
- Energy and Touch: Reiki, Therapeutic Touch, QiGong, Craniosacral Therapy
- Mental Health: We recognize the emotional challenges of living with a chronic condition and offer counseling, stress management, and coping strategies to promote overall well-being.
- Education and Support: Connecting with EDS specialists and others who have EDS for shared experiences and advice.
Discover how our treatment approach can support your health by requesting an Initial Appointment with Ashley Drapeau or Mihail Kogan. Let’s work together to improve your condition and the quality of your life!
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