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Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is the name given to a group of connective tissue disorders caused by mutations in genes that encode for collagen protein components or collagen-associated proteins. These mutations result in collagen deficiency and reduce the strength of ligaments, muscles, tendons, skin, and blood vessels.

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EDS is characterized by symptoms such as hypermobile joints, fatigue, pain, elastic skin, increased risk of injury, dislocations, flat feet, poor posture, gut and or bladder issues, allergies, headaches, problems with sleep and cardiovascular symptoms.

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These symptoms significantly affect the

quality of life of patients.

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Goals of physiotherapy

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Physiotherapy is highly recommended for EDS patients to help them with everyday activities.

The goals of physiotherapy include:

• Treating acute soft tissue lesions and injuries.

• Relieving pain.

• Teaching patients how to manage their condition independently and with minimal reliance on medications.

• Improving endurance and strengthening joint-stabilizing muscles.

• Improving balance, stamina, coordination, and general fitness.

• Improving posture and gait to prevent or correct abnormalities.

• Facilitating normal functioning in daily life.

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Physiotherapeutic interventions

Physiotherapy interventions can vary widely depending on the structural deformities and symptoms exhibited by EDS patients. In general, a multidirectional approach is used to overcome or decrease the patient’s disabilities.

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Physiotherapeutic approaches include:

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Low resistance training-Keeping your strength and EDS

Low resistance training can increase muscle tone and strength, and joint stability and, over time, counteract excessive joint, ligament, tendon, and muscle laxity.

In patients with kyphoscoliosis (spine deformity), strengthening exercises, especially for the shoulder girdle, can be helpful.

Knee strengthening exercises can improve strength and function, and decrease pain.

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Managing POTS-and Aerobic training

Aerobic training can improve muscle tone, prevent acute joint dislocations, and relieve chronic joint and muscle pain. It includes walking, cycling, low-impact and water aerobics, and swimming.  

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Aqua therapy/Hydrotherapy and EDS

Aqua therapy is considered highly beneficial because water is a good medium to perform gentle strengthening exercises, and to help ease aches and pain. Water exercises can improve cardiovascular fitness and proprioception (sense of self-movement and body position) in EDS patients.

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Pain management and Other therapies

Other therapies can also help relieve chronic joint and muscle pain in EDS patients. They include massages, hot or cold packs, electrotherapies such as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, acupuncture, skin suits,  strapping , bracing and acupressure.

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