EDS 101

What is Hypermobile EDS?

Hypermobile EDS (hEDS) is an inherited disorder of connective tissue and its collagen protein. It is defined as a syndrome by the association of the following conditions that tend to occur together: generalized joint hypermobility, joint instability complications, systemic musculoskeletal pain, and unique skin features. It may also include pelvic dysfunction, cardiovascular symptoms, autonomic nervous system dysregulation, anatomical variants, GI dysfunction, difficulty with balance, anxiety and/or mast cell activation syndrome. Research is beginning to demonstrate that these other conditions are linked to hEDS and not just arising independently. The prevalence of hEDS is estimated to be 1 in 5000 people. Although suspected to have a genetic marker associated with the expression of hEDS, one has not yet been identified. 

What is joint hypermobility?

Normally, our musculoskeletal system is designed to maximize function while minimizing injury. When ligaments don’t resist tension as they should, when resting muscle tone is poor, or when joint sockets are shallower than they should be to tolerate a particular mechanical load, this can result in joints that move more than they safely can move. Without symptoms, this is considered an anatomical variant and someone might just be described as “flexible.” When the body sends pain signals to the brain, it requires attention as continued misuse will likely result in undesirable symptoms.

What is collagen?

Collagen is the name of the protein that forms the building blocks of connective tissue and gives it structure and strength. Its intended purpose is to resist deformation while providing a matrix for support of tissues like skin, blood vessels, tendons/ligaments and as scaffolding or protection of internal organs. When it is not working as intended, skin stretches and breaks easily, wounds don’t heal well, blood vessel walls are weak and rupture or cause excessive bruising, tendons and ligaments are too elastic and “sprain” or easily “tear” and internal organs move around too much and “prolapse” or “herniate.”

[Please note: Wendy4Therapy is not a medical doctor and is not licensed to provide an official medical diagnosis. Education provided here is for your information only, and it is expected that you visit a medical practitioner who is licensed to provide a diagnosis for further exploration. Wendy4Therapy can take you through the diagnostic criteria but cannot formally diagnose EDS or related conditions. Please do  not reproduce without permission. This is GENERAL and not intended to be customized for individual patients. Please follow consultation and recommendations of your healthcare provider for specifics to your condition.