Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

Question 1

What is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

Answer 1

• A group of inherited disorders that affect your connective tissues
• Specifically tissues such as skin, joints and blood vessel walls
• Typically have flexible joints as well as stretchy and delicate skin
• 13 different types of classifications fro EDS based on the symptoms it causes and where it is located

Question 2

What is EDS caused by?

Answer 2

• Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is caused by a genetic mutation that changes your DNA sequence
• These changes happen during cell division phase when cells are making copies of DNA
• If a sequence is in the wrong place, damaged, or incomplete it puts you at a higher risk
• EDS affects the COL5A1 allele which inhibits the body’s ability to produce collagen
• Results in these tissues not being as strong or supportive

Question 3

Name some of the Subtypes of EDS

Answer 3

Classical
Classical like
Cardiac-valvular
Vascular
Hypermobile
Arthrochalasia
Dermatosparaxis
Kyphoscoliotic
Brittle cornea syndrome
Spondylodysplastic
Musculocontractural
Myopathic
Periodontal

Question 4

What are the symptoms of EDS

Answer 4

• Hypermobility of the joints
• Hyperextensibility of skin
• Laxity of ligaments
• Tissue fragility
• Delayed healing
• Atrophic scarring
• Easily bruises/bleeds

Question 5

What is some of the medical treatments for EDS?

Answer 5

• No cure (genetic)
• Treatment focuses on reducing stress placed on the blood vessels (lowering BP) as well as managing any pain associated with joints of the skeletal system
• Prescribe beta blockers or ACE inhibitors to lower blood pressure
• Assuming pain is mild or moderate, NSAIDs are an option for pain relief
• If dislocation occurs causing further damage to the joint or surrounding CR, surgical intervention may be necessary
• Otherwise, refer to PT to treat this syndrome over time

Question 6

PT treatment for EDS

Answer 6

• Aquatic therapy
• Manual therapy
• STM
• Myofascial release therapy
• Gait training

Question 7

PT goal of treatment for EDS

Answer 7

These treatments can help with alleviating pain, relaxation of muscle spasm and focusing on correct form to strengthen muscles around the joint to prevent dislocations

Question 8

The nos of PT treatment for EDS

Answer 8

• Excessive stretching
• Excessive lifting
• Deep tissue massage