Living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: How Physiotherapy Can Help You Move Better and Hurt Less

Living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) can feel overwhelming. Your joints may feel loose, your muscles tire quickly, and even simple tasks can take more effort than they should. But there is hope. With the right physiotherapy plan, you can improve strength, stay safer, and ease day-to-day discomfort.

This guide explains how a safe and structured approach helps you build stability and reduce pain, especially when working with a skilled physio in Ottawa.

What Is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome?

EDS is a genetic condition that affects collagen—the protein that supports your joints, skin, and blood vessels. When collagen is weak, you may experience:

• Very flexible or unstable joints
  
• Frequent dislocations
  
• Ongoing muscle or joint pain
  
• Fatigue
  
• Skin that bruises easily
  

Because EDS affects the entire connective tissue system, it requires a complete, full-body treatment plan rather than a joint-specific approach.

How Physiotherapy Supports People with EDS

Physiotherapy gives you safe, gentle, and effective tools to improve strength and control. At Physiocare Physiotherapy Clinic, every treatment plan is customized to your body. We avoid high-strain movements and focus only on methods that help you feel stable and supported.

Core Strength and Stability Training

Strengthening the muscles around each joint provides the support your body needs. This reduces the risk of dislocations and improves smooth movement.

Key Stability Exercises

• Core strengthening
  
• Isometric holds (such as wall sits)
  
• Slow, controlled resistance-band exercises
  

These low-impact movements are ideal for people with EDS.

Safe Resistance Training for Better Control

Although resistance training may sound risky, when done slowly and correctly, it becomes one of the safest ways to support weak joints.

Tools We Use

• Light dumbbells
  
• Resistance bands
  
• Guided, joint-protective machines
  

Stronger muscles reduce fatigue, improve balance, and give you better daily function—especially when guided by an experienced physio in Ottawa.

Laser Therapy (LLLT) for Pain Relief

Low-Level Laser Therapy uses gentle light to decrease inflammation and pain. It helps with:

• Chronic muscle pain
  
• Sensitive or unstable joints
  
• Post-injury recovery
  

When combined with exercise, it also speeds up overall healing.

Balance and Proprioception Training

People with EDS often struggle with body awareness. Balance training helps prevent falls and awkward movements.

Balance Training Includes:

• Stability ball routines
  
• Single-leg standing
  
• Movement retraining
  

Improved balance builds confidence and makes daily tasks easier.

Posture and Movement Coaching

Poor posture can increase EDS symptoms. Our physiotherapists teach you how to stand, sit, lift, and walk with less strain. We also help you adjust your workspace or home setup so your body uses energy more efficiently.

Pain and Nervous System Support

Chronic pain can be one of the most challenging parts of EDS. A personalized plan may include:

• Breathing techniques
  
• Gentle stretching
  
• Pacing strategies
  
• Pain education
  

Understanding how pain works empowers you to manage flare-ups more effectively.

What to Expect in Your EDS Physiotherapy Plan

Conclusion:

Living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome does not mean you cannot move with comfort and strength. With the right physiotherapy plan, you can gain stability, reduce pain, and take better control of your movement.

At Physiocare Physiotherapy & Rehab Centre, we bring over 20 years of experience helping patients manage chronic pain and joint-related conditions. Progress is possible—slowly, safely, and with the right support tailored to your body.