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Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a group of hereditary connective tissue disorders that affect collagen – one of the most important proteins that helps keep our joints, ligaments, skin, and tissues strong and resilient. Because collagen is involved in so many systems, EDS can show up differently from person to person, often leaving individuals feeling misunderstood or unsure where to turn.

In my naturopathic practice, I work with many clients who are seeking clarity, validation, and gentle, personalized support for their symptoms – whether they see me in-office here in North Richland Hills or connect with me virtually from another city or state. Understanding the basics of EDS and its subtypes can be a helpful first step in making sense of your experience.

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EDS is a genetic condition that affects how collagen is produced or structured. When collagen is weakened, the body may struggle to maintain proper stability, strength, flexibility, and integrity.

While symptoms vary widely, common experiences include:
• Joint hypermobility or looseness
• Frequent sprains, strains, or subluxations
• Muscle weakness or instability
• Chronic or widespread pain
• Fatigue
• Slow wound healing
• Digestive or motility concerns
• Dizziness or autonomic symptoms

Because no two bodies express collagen the same way, EDS tends to feel very individualized – which is why supportive care should also be individualized.

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There are 13 recognized subtypes of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Here’s a simple, approachable breakdown of the ones people most commonly hear about:

The most common subtype.

People with hEDS may experience:
• Generalized joint hypermobility
• Frequent joint injuries or instability
• Muscle tension or chronic pain
• Fatigue
• Soft but not fragile skin
• Autonomic symptoms (like dizziness or POTS patterns)

Currently, hEDS does not have a known genetic marker, so diagnosis is clinical rather than genetic.

Often associated with:
• Soft, stretchy, velvety skin
• Fragile skin that may tear easily
• Widened or atrophic scars
• Joint hypermobility

Genetic testing is often able to confirm this subtype.

A rare but more serious subtype.

Some signs may include:
• Thin, translucent skin
• Easy bruising
• Fragile blood vessels
• A characteristic facial structure
• Higher risk of vascular or organ complications

Individuals with suspected vEDS should be followed by medical specialists, with supportive wellness care alongside their medical team.

Usually identified early in life.

Features may include:
• Early-onset muscle weakness
• Progressive scoliosis
• Fragile connective tissue
• Possible low muscle tone in infancy

Notable for:
• Significant congenital hip dislocations
• Marked hypermobility
• Soft, fragile skin
• Frequent subluxations

Characterized by:
• Extremely fragile, easily torn skin
• Severe bruising
• Soft, doughy-feeling skin texture

These include:
• Cardiac-Valvular EDS (cvEDS)
• Musculocontractural EDS (mcEDS)
• Myopathic EDS (mEDS)
• Periodontal EDS (pEDS)
• Brittle Cornea Syndrome (BCS)
• And several others

Each has a distinct genetic pattern and presentation.

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EDS affects collagen – and collagen is everywhere. Because of this, EDS can impact:
• Joints
• Muscles
• Skin
• Digestive organs
• Blood vessels
• The autonomic nervous system
• Healing processes

Your personal symptom pattern is shaped by genetics, lifestyle, compensation patterns, hormones, injury history, and more. This is why a personalized approach is so important when navigating daily life with EDS.

Many clients I support (both locally and virtually) feel relieved simply to understand why their symptoms look the way they do.

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While Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome itself cannot be changed at the genetic level, supporting the systems that are affected can often improve comfort, stability, and overall well-being.

My role as a Naturopath is to help clients strengthen what is within their control and reduce unnecessary strain on the body.

Support may focus on:

Gentle strategies to support tissue integrity and daily comfort.

Helping the body shift out of chronic stress responses can lessen pain sensitivity and improve energy.

Many people benefit from learning which habits, positions, and movements create stability versus strain.

Connective tissue also influences the gut, and improving digestive function can support nutrient absorption and overall resilience.

Understanding how to move safely and avoid hyperextension can decrease flare-ups significantly.

Throughout this process, many clients appreciate having a supportive guide – someone who understands the nuances of EDS and can walk beside them through their healing journey.

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Here are a few simple ways individuals with EDS often feel more supported:

✨ Favor strengthening over stretching
Hypermobile bodies often benefit more from muscle activation and stability than flexibility work.

✨ Protect your joints during daily tasks
Small adjustments in posture and movement can reduce strain significantly.

✨ Support hydration and minerals
Electrolytes play a big role in muscle and nerve function.

✨ Pace your activity rather than pushing through
Flare-ups often happen when the body is pushed beyond its threshold.

✨ Prioritize sleep
Tissue repair and restoration depend heavily on rest.

These are general tips; personalized care is where deeper change and understanding occur.

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EDS can feel overwhelming – especially if you’ve spent years feeling dismissed or unsure where to turn. Many of the individuals I work with express such relief simply from having someone finally understand what they’re experiencing.

Whether you’re local to the DFW area and prefer visiting in-office, or you feel more comfortable connecting virtually, I offer both options to make support accessible and personalized.

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⭐ Ready to better understand your EDS and feel more supported in your body?

If you’re looking for clarity, compassionate guidance, and personalized naturopathic support, I’d be honored to walk alongside you.

✨ Connect with me one-on-one → Booking Now