When I'm talking to my clients who are newly diagnosed or researching the EDS diagnosis, many of them think it's just a joint disorder. However, that is not correct.
Remember that Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (or EDS) is a genetic mutation and a Connective Tissue Disorder. And for those that remember human anatomy in school, connective tissue is in lots of places throughout the body, not just at the joints. Connective tissue is a type of tissue in the body that supports and binds other tissue and organs in the body. It is primarily made up of collagen and elastin and is often found in tendons, ligaments, skin, cornea, cartilage, internal organs, bone and blood vessels.
So, what does that mean?
When the connective tissue genetics are altered, it can mean that these tissues are more vulnerable to injury including sprains, strains, tears, and inflammation. Therefore, people with EDS can have joint problems, but also stretchy skin, abnormal scarring, impaired tissue healing, stretchy blood vessels, impaired heart valves, organ prolapse, visual changes, and herniations. Which is why some of these issues are actually included in the Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome diagnosis criteria.
This is why I always recommend to my clients to notify their other medical providers of their diagnosis or suspected diagnosis to ensure that things are being missed or overlooked.
Do you or someone you know suffer from Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder or Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome? Or do you think you or someone you know might have HSD/hEDS? Save my page or share this link with them. I can help answer questions that might have been unanswered for so many years.
Thanks!
-Stay Strong. Stay Flexible.
Jessica
