What is EDS?
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a group of disorders affecting connective tissue of the body. There are currently 13 types of EDS, all typically characterised by joint hypermobility and abnormal skin elasticity. The severity of symptoms varies with each type of EDS, as well as varying from person to person. Managing EDS requires a comprehensive approach, with Exercise Physiology being highly beneficial for improving quality of life.
What is Exercise Physiology?
Exercise Physiology studies the body’s response to physical activity, how various conditions and injuries affect the body, and the influence physical activity has on those conditions and injuries. Exercise physiologists conduct numerous assessments, evaluating physical fitness, functional abilities, and personal preferences, to develop personalised exercise programs designed to improve physical function and overall quality of life. For people living with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Exercise physiology offers long term improvements in symptoms.
- Improved joint stability and muscle strength:
One of the most common symptoms of EDS is joint hypermobility. Joint hypermobility is where the joints have a greater range of motion than normal, often causing joint instability, leading to dislocations and subluxations. Resistance exercises can help increase the strength of muscles surrounding the joints, increasing joint stability and decreasing the risk of injury. - Enhance posture and balance:
Due to the joint instability and muscle weakness, people with EDS may experience issues with postural control and balance. This can contribute to the risk of falls and injury. Strength, balance, and proprioception exercises help improve the body’s ability to sense its position in space and adjust one’s posture accordingly. Over time, with prescribed progressions of these exercises, individuals with EDS can have more control over their
body during movements, enhancing their confidence and ability to complete daily activities. - Pain reduction and injury prevention:
Due to the hypermobility and often underlying collagen deficiency, people with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome often experience joint pain, soft tissue injuries, and muscle strains. Carefully prescribed, low-impact exercises offer many benefits for those with Ehlers- Danlos syndrome, including reducing pain and preventing injuries. Exercise increases blood circulation, increasing the transportation of oxygen and nutrients to working areas. This helps problem areas receive the right nutrients to help them heal and become stronger. Furthermore, endorphins, natural pain relievers, are released during exercise, providing natural pain relief. Strengthening key muscle groups and improving flexibility helps promote joint stability and muscle balance. This helps reduce the risk of injury by ensuring the body is more equipped to respond to external stresses. With a personalised exercise program designed by an Exercise physiologist, problem areas can be targeted without the exacerbation of pain/symptoms.
4. Improved Cardiovascular Health: Cardiovascular exercise is important for all individuals and while people with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome are encouraged to avoid high-impact or high-intensity exercises, cardiovascular health is still important to consider. Low-impact aerobic exercises still offer benefits to heart health, improve blood circulation and increase stamina. Exercises such as swimming, cycling, or walking, are great options for cardiovascular health without placing high load on the rest of the body.
5. Tailored programs for individual needs:
One of the key advantages of working with an exercise physiologist is their ability to create a program that is unique to each individual’s needs, abilities, and interests. Due to the varying severity of EDS, Exercise physiologists can assess the individual’s limitations and develop a program to suit their current problem areas, that can be competed safely, while also improving their strength, stability, and function. Exercise physiologists will also monitor progress, making appropriate adjustments to the exercise program as needed. This ensures continued progress and enjoyment of the individual.
6. Mental health benefits:
Living with any chronic condition, including Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, can have a
significant impact on one’s mental health. Often leading to feelings of stress, anxiety, or depression, it’s important to consider different ways to improve mental wellbeing. Regular exercise, particularly when done with someone else, such as under the guidance of an exercise physiologist, has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety and improve mood. While the endorphins released during exercise act as natural pain relievers, the also act
as mood boosters. Exercising with someone also promotes social interaction, facilitating the healthy, supportive relationships. For individuals with EDS, engaging in regular physical activity can help them regain control over their physical abilities, reducing the impact of their symptoms, and creating a sense of empowerment.
Conclusion:
Exercise physiology offers a number of benefits for individuals with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Through creating exercise programs designed specifically for each individual, incorporating strengthening, balance, and aerobic exercises, Exercise physiologists can help people with EDS improve their physical function, joint stability, decrease pain, and enhance overall quality of life. With thorough assessment, guidance, and monitoring from an exercise physiologist, individuals with EDS can safely participate in exercise specific to their needs and wants.
If you would like to know more about how Exercise Physiology services can help you manage Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, visit our website at https://urbanhealthhq.com.au or contact us by calling 0411563391 or email admin@urbanhealthhq.com.au
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