Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS) are a collection of inherited connective tissue disorders that are often inherited and can vary greatly in their effect on the body and genetic causes. They are typically characterized by skin hyperextensibility, joint hypermobility, and tissue fragility, among other conditions.
Closely related to EDS, Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD) are a group of conditions related to joint hypermobility. HSDs are intended to be diagnosed after other possible answers are excluded, such as any of the Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) including hypermobile EDS (hEDS). HSD, just like hEDS, can have significant effects on our health.
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, in varying degrees, makes the body less able to safely move or function. Bethesda Physiocare® is staffed by world-class experts on EDS treatment, with Dr. Jan Dommerholt leading the way. Through an individualized treatment plan, we can help lessen the effects of Ehlers-Danlos in your everyday life.
Given the wide range of Ehlers-Danlos syndromes and effects on the body, each case has to be evaluated and treated individually. EDS affects many parts of the body, including:
Often, a mixture of physical therapy, exercise, and lifestyle changes are recommended.
At Bethesda Physiocare®, we prioritize strengthening and stability work, which helps patients learn the best ways to move with their condition. Given that EDS and HSD can be painful for some, we also offer pain management services to help lessen the chronic pain some patients experience.
When dealing with a medical condition like Ehlers-Danlos, expertise and compassion are crucial to a successful treatment plan. Dr. Jan Dommerholt has both of these qualities in spades, dedicating much of his professional career to studying and treating the condition and physical therapy interventions related to it.
Through decades of education and countless published works, Dr. Dommerholt and the Bethesda Physiocare® team remain on the cutting edge of Ehlers-Danlos care and treatment. We’ve helped many patients improve their day-to-day lives through scientifically-tested methods of therapy and intervention.
Our team also is incredibly active in the teaching of therapy methods to other physical therapists, advancing the field and raising awareness for rare and complex conditions such as EDS. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment.