Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS)

A deeper look at a complex connective tissue disorder

Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a group of inherited connective tissue disorders that affect the body’s collagen. Collagen is a key structural protein that provides strength and stability to joints, skin, blood vessels, and internal organs. When collagen is defective or improperly formed, it can lead to joint instability, tissue fragility, and widespread systemic symptoms.

The most common form is hypermobile EDS (hEDS), which is characterized by joint hypermobility, frequent sprains or dislocations, chronic pain, fatigue, and soft or stretchy skin. Some individuals may also experience autonomic dysfunction, digestive issues, mast cell activation, and delayed wound healing. Because symptoms can vary widely and overlap with other conditions, many individuals with EDS go undiagnosed for years.

Understanding Ehlers Danlos Syndrome

Comprehensive EDS Evaluation and Assessment

At our clinic, we approach EDS with a whole body, inflammation informed perspective. Proper identification is essential, as connective tissue instability can affect multiple body systems and often coexists with lipedema, lymphedema, MCAD, hormone imbalance, or autonomic dysfunction.

Our providers conduct a detailed evaluation including medical history, joint hypermobility assessment, symptom patterns, screening for common comorbidities, and genetic evaluation. We assess connective tissue integrity, inflammatory markers, hormonal influences, and metabolic contributors that may worsen symptoms. When appropriate, we send referrals for physical therapy or additional specialty care.

Many individuals with EDS experience chronic inflammation or mast cell activation that contributes to pain, swelling, digestive symptoms, and fatigue. Connective tissue fragility combined with immune dysregulation can amplify symptom severity.

To better understand inflammatory drivers, we may recommend different types of advanced testing such as the Mediator Release Test (MRT). Identifying food and chemical triggers allows us to reduce immune burden and support tissue stability and overall resilience.

Inflammation, Mast Cells, and Connective Tissue Health

Personalized Management Plans

EDS care must be individualized and conservative, with a focus on stability, protection, and long term function. While EDS is a genetic condition and not curable, symptom management and supportive care can significantly improve quality of life. Management plans may include:

Trigger Identification and Anti Inflammatory Nutrition

When appropriate, MRT guided nutrition strategies are used to reduce inflammation and mast cell activation that may worsen joint pain and systemic symptoms. In addition, we incorporate nutrigenetic insights to better understand how your unique genetic makeup influences nutrient metabolism, detoxification pathways, connective tissue integrity, and inflammatory response.

By combining MRT testing with nutrigenetic evaluation, we create a personalized nutrition strategy that supports collagen stability, immune balance, and long term tissue resilience.

Hormonal, Metabolic, and Nutritional Support

Because connective tissue health depends on adequate nutrient availability, comprehensive nutrient testing is a key part of our evaluation process. We assess micronutrient status, metabolic function, and biochemical imbalances to identify deficiencies that may contribute to weakened collagen, delayed healing, fatigue, or increased injury risk.

Based on laboratory findings, targeted supplementation and physician guided therapies may be recommended to support connective tissue integrity, improve joint stability, reduce inflammation, and optimize hormonal balance.

Stability, Movement, and Nervous System Support

We provide guidance on joint protection strategies, safe movement practices, referrals for specialized physical therapy, and nervous system regulation techniques. Supporting muscle strength without overextending joints is key in EDS management.

Because nervous system dysregulation can amplify pain perception and muscle guarding, addressing stress response patterns is also a central component of improving stability and overall function.

Our goal is to help you build stability and confidence while minimizing injury risk and symptom flares.

Why Choose Our Clinic for EDS Care?

Ehlers Danlos Syndrome is often misunderstood and dismissed. Our clinic recognizes the complexity of connective tissue disorders and their interaction with inflammation, hormones, and immune function.

We provide compassionate, comprehensive evaluation and conservative management while coordinating referrals when specialized care is needed. Our approach supports the whole person, not just isolated symptoms.

Take the First Step Toward Understanding EDS

If you experience joint hypermobility, chronic pain, frequent injuries, unexplained fatigue, or overlapping inflammatory symptoms, we are here to help. Schedule a visit with our physician to discuss evaluation, supportive testing, and personalized strategies designed around your body and your goals.