Strategies for enhancement of function and prevention of injuries for patients with EDS:
First and Foremost: Prevention of injury is much less difficult than the highly time-intensive work of recovery.
Do not push through joint discomfort. Listen to your body when it is telling you that you’ve reached the limit.
“Pain is NO gain”
Consider type of hobbies / exercise activities that you do on a regular basis. This is an important step in prevention.
Activity Modification
Avoid
Avoid activities that encourage or incentivize the ability to stretch (as you will be successful but will be placing yourself in positions that will easily lead to injury)
Choose
Avoid activities that encourage or incentivize the ability to stretch (as you will be successful but will be placing yourself in positions that will easily lead to injury)
Choose activities such as tai chi or qigong which rely on balance, body control, and posture to stabilize joints by building supportive muscle
- Participate in physical therapy program for strengthening and stabilization of joints; use prescribed braces, splints, or taping as needed for added stability.
- warn massage therapists against deep tissue massage which may cause muscle damage.
And possibly most importantly… a positive attitude of prevention can improve global functioning and reduce stress.
Referral List:
POTS:
- https://health.utoledo.edu/clinics/hvc/syncope-center/