Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is not a specific disease, but a broad group of connective tissue disorders, each with its own symptoms and treatment approach. EDS is not curable, but with care and support from Dr. Mairin Jerome and our team at the Center for Regenerative Sports & Spine Care, many EDS patients are able to better manage pain and joint issues. Some of the most common EDS-related issues we treat include:
- Cervicogenic headache: A cervicogenic headache is a type of headache caused by pain originating from the neck. In individuals with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, ligament laxity and joint instability in the cervical spine can place ongoing strain on the upper neck muscles and joints, leading to pain that radiates into the head, temples, or behind the eyes.
- Joint subluxation: A joint subluxation is a partial dislocation in which a joint shifts out of its normal position but does not fully separate. Connective tissue laxity associated with EDS can make these episodes more frequent, particularly in the shoulders, hips, knees, fingers, and jaw.
- Joint instability: Joint instability describes excessive or poorly controlled movement within a joint due to weakened supporting structures. In EDS, collagen abnormalities may reduce the strength and resilience of ligaments and connective tissue, forcing the surrounding muscles to work harder to maintain stability.
- Pain associated with hypermobility: Pain related to hypermobility often develops from repeated strain on joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments that are working beyond their normal range. Many individuals with EDS experience chronic discomfort not because of a single injury, but from the stress of unstable movement patterns and constant muscular compensation.
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