Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a collective term for a broad group of connective tissue disorders that typically manifest, in its most common form, with hyperflexible joints and overly stretchy skin that can have problems healing.
While people with EDS can and do have active lifestyles, physical activities and sports can present unique challenges. Many people who have EDS can highly benefit from using sports medicine strategies that are tailored to their specific needs by focusing on helping the patient learn more about how to develop more strength and stability in their joints.
If you have EDS, here's what an orthopedist who specializes in sports medicine can do for you:
You Can Develop Customized Exercise Programs For Strength Training
Because of your overly bendy joints, you have to be careful not to dislocate your hips, shoulders, wrists, and other joints when you exercise. Your doctor and physical therapist can help you develop an exercise or training program that will let you get into shape (or stay in shape) without putting undue pressure on your delicate joints and skin.
You Can Learn How To Prevent Yourself From Getting Injured So Often
When you have EDS, it seems like another injury is always just one wrong move away. Most people with EDS have varying flexibility in different joints, so you may struggle to keep a thumb, an elbow, a knee, or some other body part in place when you engage in any kind of physical activity. Fortunately, sports medicine isn't just about treating injuries; it's also about preventing them.
Working with a sports medicine specialist can help you learn which supportive devices work best to enhance your joint stability while you exercise or engage in your favorite sport. This may involve the use of specialized joint braces or taping techniques that are hard to learn on your own without tailored instructions.
You Can Focus On Pain Management And Proper Recovery Techniques
When you do suffer an injury, you know that it's harder for you to heal. Working with a sports medicine specialist who understands the challenges of EDS can help you take a realistic approach to both your expected recovery times and pain management. You can also explore non-pharmacological methods of recovery, including cryogenic therapy, thermotherapy, and physiotherapy techniques.
Whether you're newly diagnosed with EDS or you've known that you have it for a long time, it pays to explore your sports medicine options when you want to stay active but your body's genetic quirks are making it difficult.
Share20 July 2023
I'm not one to complain too much when my body hurts. But when I fractured my hip last year, I complained a whole lot. My broken hip kept me from being active in life. I felt completely helpless because I could no longer move freely or get around home without my family's assistance. After spending several months in pain, I saw an orthopedist for care. My orthopedist examined my fractured hip and found an infection in the joint. I underwent surgery to remove the damaged tissue and replace it with an artificial hip joint. Now, I feel so much better. My new hip gives me the freedom to move around again. If you have pain in one of your bones from injury or disease, read my blog. I show you how to find an orthopedist who can help you get back your life. Thanks for reading.
