Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

What is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome?

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a group of inherited conditions that affect the connective tissues of the body. Connective tissues include ligaments, tendons, muscles, skin, and blood vessels.

These tissues rely on collagen, a protein that provides strength and structure. In people with EDS, collagen is either produced incorrectly or functions abnormally. As a result, connective tissues become weaker and more elastic than normal.

This can cause joints to move beyond their normal range, leading to instability and injury. People with EDS may also have soft, stretchy skin and fragile tissues.

Although there is currently no cure for Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, many individuals can manage symptoms effectively through physiotherapy, lifestyle adjustments, and medical care.

At ACE Physio Sports – Singapore, physiotherapists help patients manage EDS by improving joint control, strength, and stability through personalised rehabilitation programmes.

How Does Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Happen?

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is a genetic condition, meaning it is inherited through family genes. Mutations in certain genes affect how the body produces or structures collagen.

Because collagen is a major component of connective tissue, abnormal collagen leads to:

• Weaker ligaments and tendons
• Increased joint flexibility
• Reduced tissue stability
• Greater risk of injury

There are several different types of EDS, but the most common is hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS), which mainly affects joint stability and mobility.

Symptoms and severity can vary widely between individuals.

What Are the Symptoms of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome?

Symptoms of EDS can affect many parts of the body and vary depending on the type of the condition.

Common symptoms include:

• Hypermobile joints (joints that move beyond the normal range)
• Frequent joint dislocations or subluxations
• Muscle weakness
• Chronic joint or muscle pain
• Soft, elastic, or stretchy skin
• Fragile skin that bruises easily
• Joint instability
• Flat feet
• Poor balance and coordination
• Postural problems
• Fatigue during physical activity
• Early-onset osteoarthritis
• Spinal deformities such as scoliosis or kyphosis

Because the joints are less stable, people with EDS often experience repeated injuries or persistent joint pain.

What Should I Do If I Have Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome?

If you experience symptoms such as joint hypermobility, frequent dislocations, or chronic joint pain, it is important to seek medical advice.

Diagnosis of EDS usually involves several steps.

Doctors may perform:

• Physical examination of joint flexibility and skin elasticity
• Medical history assessment
• Blood tests to identify genetic markers
• MRI scans to assess soft tissue and joint health
• X-rays to identify joint instability
• In some cases, tissue biopsy to evaluate collagen structure

Because EDS can affect multiple body systems, diagnosis often involves a multidisciplinary team, including geneticists, rheumatologists, and physiotherapists.

Early physiotherapy management can help reduce injury risk and maintain mobility.

Physiotherapy Treatment for Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

Physiotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for managing EDS symptoms and improving quality of life.

A physiotherapist will perform a detailed assessment to identify areas of weakness, instability, and pain.

Treatment focuses on improving joint control, muscle strength, and movement patterns.

Common physiotherapy approaches include:

Strengthening Exercises

Targeted strengthening exercises help stabilise joints and improve muscle support around weak connective tissues.

Joint Stability Training

Exercises improve control of joint movement to prevent dislocations and subluxations.

Balance and Coordination Training

Balance exercises help improve body awareness and reduce the risk of falls.

Postural Correction

Postural training helps reduce strain on the spine and joints, especially during prolonged sitting or standing.

Pain Management Techniques

Physiotherapists may use methods such as:

• Soft tissue therapy
• Gentle mobilisation
• Activity modification

These techniques help reduce pain and improve movement.

Taping, Bracing, or Splinting

External supports can help stabilise joints and reduce strain during movement.

Education and Injury Prevention

Patients are taught how to move safely and avoid activities that may cause joint injuries.

Physiotherapy helps individuals with EDS:

• Improve muscle strength
• Stabilise hypermobile joints
• Reduce pain
• Prevent injuries
• Maintain an active lifestyle

What Should I Avoid With Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome?

Certain activities may worsen symptoms or increase injury risk in people with EDS.

It is important to avoid:

• Overstretching or aggressive flexibility exercises
• High-impact sports that stress unstable joints
• Sudden or uncontrolled joint movements
• Ignoring joint pain or instability
• Poor posture during daily activities
• Exercising without proper guidance

Following a structured physiotherapy programme can help ensure safe and controlled movement.

Can There Be Long-Term Effects?

If Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is not managed properly, it may lead to long-term complications such as:

• Chronic joint pain
• Recurrent joint dislocations
• Early arthritis
• Persistent muscle weakness
• Reduced mobility
• Fatigue and reduced physical endurance

However, with proper management and physiotherapy, many people with EDS can maintain good mobility and functional independence.

Early rehabilitation and long-term strengthening programmes are important for maintaining joint stability.

Why Choose ACE Physio Sports

ACE Physio Sports – Singapore provides specialised physiotherapy for connective tissue disorders, joint instability, and musculoskeletal conditions.

Our experienced physiotherapists develop personalised rehabilitation programmes designed to improve strength, stability, and safe movement.

Patients benefit from:

• Experienced physiotherapists
• Personalised treatment programmes
• Evidence-based rehabilitation
• Sports and musculoskeletal specialists
• Modern physiotherapy techniques

Our East Coast Road clinic serves patients from nearby areas including:

• Marine Parade
• Katong
• Joo Chiat
• Siglap
• Bedok
• Telok Kurau

We aim to help patients improve mobility, reduce pain, and maintain an active lifestyle.

Book an Appointment

To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosport.com.