What is EDS?

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Hypermobility is a condition where joints easily move beyond the range expected for a particular joint. This can be due to connective tissue that is more flexible than usual or acquired from repeatedly working and stretching certain joints.

It is often hereditary, meaning it runs in families. Some people may have hypermobility due to a condition or heritable disorder of connective tissues, such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) or Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSDs). 

Symptoms can include joint pain, frequent joint dislocations or subluxations, soft skin that may bruise easily, chronic fatigue, fast heartbeat, digestive issues, and many more.

A qualified healthcare provider can help determine if hypermobility is a sign of a connective tissue disorder, such as EDS or HSD.

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, also known as EDS, is a genetic connective tissue disorder that can affect the whole body. 

Hypermobility is a feature of EDS, but can also be seen with other connective tissue disorders, or even by itself. Hypermobility & EDS can cause symptoms that interfere with daily function and overall well-being. 

EDS and hypermobility are conditions that differ from person to person. Some people might have mild symptoms, while others might have more serious ones. It is important to get a proper evaluation, to manage any symptoms you may have, and to take good care of your body. We can help.

EDS affects your body's connective tissues. Connective tissues are like the body's "glue" - they hold everything together and give structure to your body. They're found in your skin, joints, blood vessels, and virtually all other parts of your body. 

In EDS, connective tissues aren't as strong as they should be. Think of it like a house built with weak nails - the walls might be wobbly and not hold up as well. 

The altered "glue" allows the joints to move around more than usual, which can cause pain, dislocations, and other issues. There can be various problems outside of the joints too, like fragile and stretchy skin, poor healing, fatigue, anxiety, irritable bowel, headache, and more. There are several types of EDS and hypermobile EDS (hEDS) is the most common.