Hypermobility Hack: 7 Easy Ways to Make Life with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Easier

Living with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is no easy feat. You may struggle with intense pain and fatigue, or constantly worry about moving your body in a way that will cause one of your joints to sublux or dislocate. It can also be difficult to find a doctor and/or physical therapist who is knowledgeable about EDS, and friends who understand the physical and emotional struggles you face every day.

Although there’s not a cure for EDS, some people have developed tricks they use to prevent or manage symptoms. We’re sharing some of our favorites in the hopes that they can make your life a bit more comfortable too.

1. Hot bubble baths. Sitting in the hot water with bubbles can help

many people manage their joint pain.

2. Get a rolling laundry basket so you don’t have to carry heavy

baskets around. They can be used for many things beside laundry!

3. Facebook EDS support groups. They help you, in a sense, be

surrounded by people who understand your pain, struggles, and

worries. Your feelings can be validated, rather than being brushed off, helping give you the emotional strength you need to keep fighting.

4. Do your shopping online! There are so many great resources out

there that can get you everything you need delivered right to your

door. No lifting or walking required.

5. Thermal leggings: they act like compression legging and a heat pad

– all in one! Super helpful for the winter or a bad flare.

6. Try using a brush instead of a sponge to do dishes. We know

sometimes scrubbing with a sponge can make fingers hyperextend,

brushes can help with this.

7. Get a good physical therapist. A good physical therapist

understands your symptoms, knows how to work with your condition,

and will go out of their way to find you answers. They don’t minimize

your struggle or think that you’re “faking it.” They truly want you to live

a full and healthy life – and they’re committed to helping you achieve

that.

There are a lot of hypermobility tips out there and it can be hard to tell which ones work. These are ones that we tend to recommend to clients most often. These tips and more can be found in Paige Wyant's Mighty Network writing.

We know living with EDS isn’t easy. But there are things you can do to make it more manageable. Feel free to check out the “Tips & Advice” section of our website for all kinds of information on EDS and hypermobility such as 5 Huge Misconceptions about EDS and How Yoga Can Help Relieve your Hypermobility Pain.

If you’re interested in taking the next step and seeing a physical therapist who knows exactly what you’re going through and how to help – because she has EDS herself – just fill out this short form and we’ll get on the phone with you, free of charge. We’re dedicated to making sure you live a full life, even with EDS. And we’re here to help.