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In this episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD, welcomes Chicago-based physical therapist Wendy Wagner to discuss the unique challenges of physical therapy for hypermobility and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). Wendy, who personally manages EDS, POTS, and MCAS, shares her journey, insights on cervical instability, and tips for choosing the right physical therapist. They dive into the importance of “starting low and going slow” in exercise, strategies for avoiding flares, and how to tailor physical therapy to individual needs. Whether you’re looking to build strength or simply move without pain, Wendy’s expertise provides guidance and practical hacks to make physical therapy safer and more effective for hypermobile bodies. Takeaways: Physical Therapy Requires Customization: Traditional PT often doesn’t suit hypermobile patients, who benefit more from individualized programs that focus on stability and gradual strength-building. Start Low, Go Slow: Many patients with EDS need to begin with very small movements to avoid overloading their joints and worsening pain or instability. Building Confidence is Essential: Overcoming kinesiophobia (fear of movement) is key for hypermobile patients, often requiring exercises that first build trust in their bodies. Mindfulness and Body Awareness Matter: Breathing exercises, body awareness, and even posture adjustments can help patients avoid compensatory movements and pain. Collaboration is Key in PT: Finding a PT willing to learn and work collaboratively is crucial for hypermobile patients to safely navigate physical therapy. Connect with YOUR Bendy Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/. Thank YOU so much for tuning in. We hope you found this episode informative, inspiring, useful, validating, and enjoyable. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to level up your knowledge about hypermobility disorders and the people who have them. Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/. Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! Learn about Wendy Wagner Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wendy4therapy Website: https://www.wendy4therapy.com/ Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD: YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

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In this episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD, explores the impact of nutrition on joint hypermobility with Lorna Ryan, chair of the Diet and Nutrition Working Group for the Ehlers Danlos Society. Lorna shares essential advice on how to nourish the body for better pain management, improved gut health, and more energy. From the importance of fiber to balancing nutrients and understanding food sensitivities, this conversation is packed with practical tips. Lorna also shares her favorite recipes and explains how the right foods can help reduce EDS symptoms and support gut health. Whether you’re looking to ease GI symptoms, balance energy levels, or discover new dietary approaches for EDS, this episode offers valuable insights and hacks. Takeaways: Flexible Diets Work Best: There is no one-size-fits-all diet for EDS; flexible eating plans based on individual needs are more effective than rigid restrictions. Fiber is Crucial for Gut Health: Fiber is essential for a healthy gut, and those with EDS often need to reintroduce it gradually to avoid GI symptoms. Adaptability is Key in Nutrition: Lorna emphasizes adapting diets based on changing symptoms, seasons, and life circumstances, helping to better manage health outcomes. Food as Nourishment, Not Restriction: Instead of focusing on restrictions, Lorna advises seeing food as a source of nourishment that supports healing and strength. Track, Don’t Restrict: Keeping a food and symptom diary helps identify triggers without unnecessary restrictions, especially for those managing mast cell activation syndrome and dysautonomia. Connect with YOUR Bendy Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/. Thank YOU so much for tuning in. We hope you found this episode informative, inspiring, useful, validating, and enjoyable. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to level up your knowledge about hypermobility disorders and the people who have them. Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/. Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! Learn about Lorna Ryan Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lornaryanhealth Diet and Nutrition Summit Information Recordings Package ($30) – The Recordings Package ticket will become available after sale of the Virtual Ticket ends, those who purchase will receive access to the on-demand content from November 3. It does not include access to the live event or our event app Whova, and will be available for 8 weeks after the event airs. Choose Your Price Access – After sale of the Recordings Package ticket ends, those who would like to access the on-demand content can purchase it on a “Choose Your Price” basis, where they are able to opt-out and access without a cost if they wish. Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD: YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

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In this episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD, has an in-depth conversation with Dr. Clair Francomano, a leading expert on connective tissue disorders and Chair of the Medical and Scientific Advisory Board for the Ehlers-Danlos Society. Dr. Francomano shares her insights on diagnosing hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) versus hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD), the current state of genetic testing, and emerging biomarkers (are we close?) that could revolutionize hEDS diagnosis. She discusses the potential connections between EDS, mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), offering advice for patients navigating this complex landscape. With updates from ongoing research, this episode is essential listening for those with EDS or related conditions. Takeaways: Differences Between hEDS and HSD: Dr. Francomano explains the nuanced distinctions between hypermobile EDS (hEDS) and hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD), noting that these categories may overlap more than previously thought and might benefit from unified diagnostic criteria in the future. Genetic Testing Red Flags: While genetic testing can be useful, Dr. Francomano highlights specific “red flags” in family history or personal health that should prompt a referral to a geneticist for further investigation. Current Limitations of Genetic Testing for hEDS: Unlike other types of EDS, hEDS currently has no identified genetic markers, meaning diagnosis relies on clinical criteria rather than genetic testing alone. Emerging Biomarkers Show Promise: New studies, such as those exploring fibronectin and calocrine, suggest potential biomarkers for hEDS and HSD, which could transform diagnosis and treatment in the future. Holistic Approach to Comorbidities: Dr. Francomano discusses how hEDS often presents with comorbidities like POTS and mast cell activation syndrome, recommending a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to manage these interconnected symptoms effectively. Connect with YOUR Bendy Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/. Thank YOU so much for tuning in. We hope you found this episode informative, inspiring, useful, validating, and enjoyable. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to level up your knowledge about hypermobility disorders and the people who have them. Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/. Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! Learn about Dr. Clair Francomano Her Book: https://amzn.to/4e3eSaF Instagram: @dr.clairfrancomano Youtube: @DoctorClair Red Flags List: https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/p/redflags/ Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD: YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

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In this personal solo episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD, opens up about her journey from aspiring ballet dancer to renowned hypermobility expert. Dr. Linda shares her struggles with joint pain, dislocations, and chronic illness, which led to her diagnosis of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). Along with her personal story, Dr. Linda reveals the hacks and strategies that have helped her regain function, manage pain, and improve her quality of life. From practical tips to movement strategies, this episode is packed with advice on navigating hypermobility and chronic pain. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or a long-time EDS warrior, you’ll find plenty of insights and hacks to apply to your own journey. Takeaways: Personal Struggles Led to Professional Focus: Dr. Linda's own experiences with chronic pain, multiple surgeries, and hypermobility drove her to shift from being an anesthesiologist to becoming a hypermobility expert and advocate. Hypermobility Affects Multiple Body Systems: Dr. Linda's journey highlights how hypermobility and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) can impact various systems in the body, including joints, gastrointestinal issues, and the nervous system. Tarlov Cyst Surgery Was a Turning Point: Dr. Linda’s diagnosis of a Tarlov cyst and subsequent surgery gave her tremendous relief after years of pain, sparking her commitment to helping others with similar conditions. Movement is Critical for Recovery: Despite the fear of injury, Dr. Linda emphasizes the importance of movement for those with EDS, as it is essential for maintaining strength and preventing further dysfunction. Secrets to Living Better: Dr. Linda shares the approach she used to improve her own quality of life. This holistic method to help patients manage EDS and chronic pain includes movement, nutrition, psychosocial support, nutritional supplements, and medication. Connect with YOUR Bendy Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/. Thank YOU so much for tuning in. We hope you found this episode informative, inspiring, useful, validating, and enjoyable. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to level up your knowledge about hypermobility disorders and the people who have them. Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/. Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD: YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog Part of the Human Content Podcast Network