What is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and can we help?

If you or someone you know has suffered from Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome you understand how frustrating it can be.

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is a group of rare genetic disorders involving connective tissue. It is characterized by hyper mobility of joints, hyper extensive skin, and tissue fragility. According to the classification of EDS, there are about 13 types that can affect joints, cardiac and heart valve, skin, and even dental presentations.

What causes Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome?

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is often genetic and involves inherited changes in certain genes affecting the processing of collagen in the body. Patients with EDS have joint hypermobility, prone to joint dislocations, translucent skin, easy bruising, and even poor wound healing. EDS patients often have muscle and joint pain, fatigue, and even heart issues like mitral valve prolapse.

Read more about EDS here in our previous post

What are treatments that can help?

Common treatments for classical EDS involving joint hyper mobility include preventative care and symptom management. This can help to protect the joints and function. Physical therapy and monitoring of other symptoms are common. The key with EDS patients is prevention, and whole body support to address all aspects that EDS might affect including digestive symptoms, heart health, and even nutrient absorption and bone health.

The ultimate goal of treatment is to support and restore joint function and stability. This is where acupuncture and naturopathic medicine comes into play.

Did you know acupuncture has been recommended and shown to help with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome?

Acupuncture has been shown to help improve blood flow, decrease pain and inflammation, and restore function…among other things. Studies have shown just how acupuncture can help restore nerve function, aid in anti-inflammatory process, and speed recovery. Acupuncture is also a great conjunctive care for people with EDS as it has no side effects compared to steriods or NSAIDs for pain management.

Therefore, acupuncture can provide a safe and effective treatment option for those who suffer from EDS.

At Starting Point Acupuncture in Bothell, WA, we offer an integrated approach to care which addressed the underlying cause as well as helping you improve quality of life. If you would like to learn more about how we can help you become pain-free, give our office a call today at (425) 686-4498 to schedule your initial consultation.

Sources:

Uptodate

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1781596/pdf/12775355.pdf