May Is Ehlers-Danlos Awareness Month

Every May, people throughout the world unite to support those with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS). We come together to celebrate our global community, share stories, and raise awareness.

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a genetic condition that affects a person’s connective tissues, like joints, skin, or tendons. Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is a disability. There are 14 different types of EDS, but the most common form of this condition is hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS). hEDS can make a person’s joints move beyond the normal range of motion, a symptom called hypermobility. Hypermobility can result in unstable joints going out of place causing pain. Other parts of the body can be affected by hEDS too. It can cause skin stretchiness, poor balance, stomach issues, fatigue, spinal instability, nerve pain, and other symptoms. Managing hEDS can be difficult, and a lot of management is about decreasing the severity of symptoms. Many healthcare workers may not know about EDS or how to treat it, so it can be hard for people with EDS to get help or have their pain taken seriously. The main therapy for EDS is physical therapy to strengthen muscles, improve posture and balance, and prevent future joint damage.

Need help or want more information on Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome? Explore the resources listed:

The Ehlers-Danlos Society

EDS Awareness

Ehlers-Danlos News

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ehlers-danlos-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20362125

https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/what-is-eds/

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ehlers-danlos-syndromes/

Additional Resources:

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