Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a connective tissue disorder that can significantly impact how the body moves, stabilizes, and recovers. For many people, EDS shows up as joint instability, frequent aches or injuries, fatigue, and a general feeling that their body doesn’t feel supported.
At Bodyworks Physical Therapy in Fargo, ND, we work with individuals who have EDS or joint hypermobility and understand how frustrating these symptoms can be. While EDS is a lifelong condition, physical therapy plays a key role in improving joint stability, reducing pain, and helping people move with more confidence.
What is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)?
EDS affects the body’s connective tissue, which provides structure and support to joints, muscles, ligaments, skin, and other tissues. When connective tissue is more elastic than typical, joints may move beyond normal ranges, making them less stable and more prone to irritation or injury.
There are multiple types of EDS, with hypermobile EDS being the most common. Symptoms and severity vary, but movement-related challenges are often at the center of daily life for people with EDS.
Common EDS Symptoms Physical Therapy Can Address
People with EDS often experience:
- Joint hypermobility or instability
- Frequent sprains, strains, or subluxations
- Chronic joint, muscle, or low back pain
- Fatigue or muscle weakness
- Balance or coordination difficulties
- Pain that appears without a clear injury
With EDS, flexibility is rarely the problem – stability and control are. Traditional workouts or generalized exercise programs can sometimes increase symptoms if joints are loaded without adequate support. Physical therapy focuses on:
- Teaching muscles to support hypermobile joints
- Improving coordination and movement control
- Building strength in a safe, intentional way
- Reducing unnecessary strain on joints and connective tissue
The goal is not to limit movement, but to help the body move more efficiently and confidently.
How Physical Therapy Helps Stabilize Hypermobile Joints
At Bodyworks Physical Therapy, treatment for EDS is individualized and tailored to how your body responds. PT care may include:
- Targeted strengthening to support joint stability
- Core and pelvic stabilization exercises
- Improving neuromuscular control and body awareness
- Gradual, thoughtful loading to build tolerance
- Education on posture, joint protection, and pacing
- Hands-on techniques to calm irritated tissues when appropriate
These struggles help muscles take on more of the stabilizing role that connective tissue may struggle to provide.
How Aquatic Therapy Can Help People with EDS
For some individuals with EDS, land-based exercise can feel intimidating or uncomfortable, especially when joints are painful, unstable, or easily irritated. This is where aquatic therapy can be a valuable part of a physical therapy plan.
Aquatic therapy takes place in a warm, therapeutic pool and uses the unique properties of water to support movement. The buoyancy of the water reduces stress on joints while still allowing muscles to work, making it easier to move with control and confidence.
For people with EDS, aquatic therapy can help:
- Reduce joint loading and impact
- Improve strength and joint stability in a supported environment
- Enhance balance and coordination safely
- Decrease pain and muscle tension
- Build movement confidence without fear of injury
For many patients with EDS, aquatic therapy can be an excellent starting point or complementary treatment option, especially during flare-ups or periods of increased pain.
Rebuilding Confidence with Movement
One of the most challenging aspects of EDS is the fear of movement that can develop over time. When joints feel unpredictable, it’s natural to avoid activity which can lead to deconditioning, increased fatigue, and more pain. Physical therapy introduces controlled, repeatable movements, progresses exercises gradually and intentionally, and helps to distinguish between safe discomfort and harmful pain.
Living Well with EDS Through Physical Therapy
While physical therapy does not cure EDS, it can significantly improve quality of life. Many patients find that the consistent, guided care, they are able to:
- Reduce daily pain and flare-ups
- Improve joint stability and strength
- Increase activity tolerance
- Feel more confident in daily movement
- Return to activities they enjoy safely
Support for EDS in Fargo, West Fargo, Moorhead, and Surrounding Communities
If you’ve been diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, or suspect hypermobility may be contributing to your pain or instability, physical therapy can be a valuable part of your care team.
At Bodyworks Physical Therapy in Fargo, ND, we proudly serve the community with personalized, hands-on care. If EDS symptoms are limiting your daily life, request an appointment today and let our team help you move with greater stability and confidence.