Getting medical support for Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is an inherited genetic condition which comes in a range of subtypes, each with different medical complications. Even if a patient has a relatively mild case of EDS, it is a good idea to have a strong relationship with a doctor and medical team in order to manage the symptoms of the disorder. 

Doctor for pain and wound healing

Patients with EDS often have pain associated with their hypermobile joints and doctors can help to prescribe pain medication and monitor pain levels in order to keep the patient as comfortable as possible. Some patients with EDS also have issues with wound healing, so it can be a good idea to have doctors keep an eye on any small wounds and gashes to ensure that there are no issues with healing. Often, professional wound dressing and suture gluing can be important to keep the wounds free from infection and optimise healing for people with EDS. 

Physiotherapist for stability

People with EDS can often have sprains and dislocations. It can be useful to have physical therapy to strengthen the muscle and ligaments around joints. Physiotherapists can also teach patients how to strap and tape weaker joints to prevent sprains on vulnerable parts of the body, such as shoulders and ankles. This can make the patients more comfortable as well, as they tend to feel more confident in moving about with less risk of sprains.

X-rays for monitoring spine curvature 

Many patients with EDS also have scoliosis. The preferred treatment for scoliosis will depend on the degree of curvature, which is determined by x-ray and other scans. Having these in the same medical centre can make it easier for a doctor to check the x-rays and if necessary refer the patient to a specialist for bracing or potentially for surgery in the case of serious spinal issues. 

Nutritional advice and support

Some patients with EDS have some gastrointestinal sensitivity so it can be useful to get support from a nutritionist to ensure that they have a sufficient diet. It is also important for EDS patients to maintain a healthy weight as extra weight can place stress on joints which are vulnerable to the extra pressure. 

It can be very useful for EDS patients to find a medical centre so that a team of health professionals, including those mentioned in this article, can help patients to manage EDS symptoms and optimise their health.