Occupational Therapy in Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder

Author: Casey Uritis, OTR/L

What is Occupational Therapy?

Through the use of activity modifications, exercise, education, and management tools, occupational therapists enable patients to achieve the highest level of independence in desired and meaningful occupations.

With EDS/HSD we know that routine occupations such as dressing, self-care, cooking, home management, work/school, and sleep can all be impacted. So, what can we do about it? How do we navigate these challenges?

Occupational therapy looks at joint protection strategies to lessen subluxations and joint pain while preventing future injury. Examples such as utilizing adaptive equipment like built-up grip, long-handed sponges, and ergonomics. We look at ways to modify current movement patterns and strengthen your muscles to stabilize and support your hypermobile joints.

We discuss energy conservation techniques to prevent feelings of “crash and burn”, “brain fog” and “just making it through.” We look at this as activity and schedule modifications, sleep hygiene, and stress management.

As appropriate, we address various splinting needs to improve function for day-to-day tasks. We evaluate the need for splints/orthotics in combination with strength training to allow you to complete functional tasks such as writing, typing, and work.

The goal of OT is to improve your current level of function and prevent future injury. We look at pursuing a healthy lifestyle to live a happy, healthy, and meaningful life with EDS/HSD.

Have you tried any adaptive equipment or, modified any tasks that have worked for you? Comment below!