Hypermobile EDS

Understanding Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS)

What is Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS)?

‍hEDS is a hereditary connective tissue disorder that affects collagen, the protein responsible for providing strength and elasticity to joints, skin, and other tissues. Individuals with hEDS experience excessive joint flexibility, chronic pain, and a range of systemic symptoms that can impact daily life.

Key Symptoms of hEDS

‍Symptoms of hEDS can vary widely in severity, but the most common include:

• Joint hypermobility – Excessive flexibility in joints, often leading to frequent subluxations or dislocations
• Chronic pain – Persistent musculoskeletal pain, often worsening with activity
• Fatigue – Profound exhaustion that doesn’t improve with rest
• Easy bruising and fragile skin – Skin that may appear soft, thin, or hyperelastic
• Gastrointestinal issues – Conditions like IBS, gastroparesis, or reflux
• Dysautonomia – Conditions like POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) which affect heart rate and blood pressure
• Poor wound healing – Slow healing of cuts and a tendency to develop atrophic scars
• Anxiety and autonomic dysfunction – Linked to nervous system dysregulation

What Causes hEDS?

‍hEDS is a genetic condition, though the exact mutation responsible has yet to be identified. Unlike other types of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) that have known genetic markers, hEDS is diagnosed based on clinical criteria. Factors that may contribute to symptom severity include:

• Collagen abnormalities affecting connective tissue integrity
• Chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation
• Nervous system imbalances, including dysautonomia and mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS)

Diagnosing hEDS

‍Diagnosing hEDS involves a thorough clinical evaluation, including:

• Beighton Score Assessment – Measures joint hypermobility
• Family and Medical History Review – Identifies patterns of connective tissue symptoms
• Exclusion of Other Forms of EDS – Genetic testing may be required to rule out other subtypes

Treatment and Management of hEDS

‍There is no cure for hEDS, but treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. A personalized approach may include:

• Physical Therapy & Strength Training
  • Focused on joint stabilization and injury prevention
  • Low-impact exercises like swimming and Pilates
• Pain Management
  • NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, or low-dose neuropathic medications
  • Myofascial release, acupuncture, and massage therapy
• Autonomic and Cardiovascular Support
  • Managing conditions like POTS with hydration, electrolytes, and compression garments
  • Vagus nerve stimulation and nervous system retraining
• Gut and Nutritional Support
  • Addressing GI dysfunction with dietary modifications and probiotics
  • Anti-inflammatory nutrition to support connective tissue health
• Mast Cell Stabilization & Immune Regulation
  • Identifying and managing MCAS-related symptoms
  • Supplements like quercetin, vitamin C, and DAO enzymes

How Restorative Medicine Can Help

‍At Restorative Medicine Center, we take a root cause approach to managing hEDS. Instead of just addressing symptoms, we focus on identifying underlying dysfunctions that contribute to the condition. Our integrative approach includes:

• Comprehensive Testing: We utilize advanced diagnostic tools to assess immune function, inflammation markers, microbiome health, and hormone imbalances that may be exacerbating symptoms.
• Personalized Treatment Plans: No two hEDS patients are the same, so we tailor treatment based on individual needs, including customized supplementation, lifestyle adjustments, and physical therapy recommendations.
• Functional Nutrition Support: Targeting gut health, nutrient absorption, and reducing inflammation through diet modifications and targeted supplementation.
• Nervous System Regulation: Addressing dysautonomia and POTS with autonomic retraining, vagus nerve stimulation, and stress management techniques.
• Mast Cell and Inflammation Control: Identifying and addressing chronic inflammation, histamine intolerance, and mast cell activation to reduce pain and systemic reactions.
• Collaborative Care: Working alongside physical therapists, genetic specialists, and other healthcare providers to ensure a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to healing.

Living with hEDS: Hope for a Better Quality of Life

‍hEDS can be challenging, but with the right strategies, many individuals experience significant improvement in symptoms. A root cause approach that addresses underlying immune dysfunction, nervous system imbalances, and structural instability can lead to better long-term outcomes.

If you suspect you have hEDS or need help managing symptoms, schedule a consultation to start building a comprehensive care plan tailored to your needs.